The Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities have commenced a critical meeting in Abuja, following recent threats by the union to embark on a nationwide strike.
The union had expressed frustration over the government’s alleged failure to address longstanding demands.
The threat of industrial action emerged after ASUU’s National Executive Council met at the University of Ibadan on August 19, 2024.
The lecturers resolved to strike if the government did not honor the renegotiated 2009 agreement. ASUU’s demands include improved welfare, increased university funding, and a halt to the proliferation of new universities across the country.
In response to ASUU’s ultimatum, the Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, acknowledged that many of the issues raised by the union have been ongoing since 1981.
He emphasized that the government is actively working to address the grievances and noted that letters of invitation had been sent to ASUU and other stakeholders to discuss and resolve the issues.
“Most of the issues raised by ASUU are being attended to. For example, the directive to remove ASUU members from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) has already been approved by the President. The delay in implementation is due to bureaucratic processes, but we expect to resolve these matters during our meeting on Monday,” Mamman stated.
The minister also urged ASUU to approach the negotiations with an open mind, emphasizing the need for a balanced resolution that considers the interests of all parties involved.
“ASUU’s demands have been a recurring challenge for successive governments. However, the President has committed to finding a permanent solution, and his actions thus far reflect that commitment,” Mamman added.
The outcome of the meeting is anticipated to be pivotal in determining whether public university lecturers will proceed with their strike action.
