By Oyinkansayo Wole-Bodunde.
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a warning to the Federal Government, demanding the implementation of a 2009 agreement or facing a nationwide strike.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, ASUU President Chris Piwuna emphasized the urgent need for the government to address the conditions in Nigerian universities.
Piwuna mentioned nine outstanding issues, including the delayed renegotiation process since 2017, withheld salaries from the 2022 strike, and unpaid entitlements related to the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System. He also expressed concerns about delayed funding for university revitalization and unpaid academic allowances.
The ASUU president criticized the government’s inaction on promises to inject ₦150 billion into universities and adjust irregular allowances by 2026. He also mentioned the marginalization of ASUU members in state institutions, such as Kogi State University and Lagos State University, where victimization, salary denial, and job insecurity persist.
On the issue of university autonomy, Piwuna lamented political interference in leadership selection, stating examples from Nnamdi Azikiwe and Abuja universities. He warned that universities are becoming “battlegrounds for political and economic interests,” which is unacceptable.
Piwuna emphasized the importance of education for national transformation and prosperity, saying, “Education empowers citizens, drives innovation, and instils values. Without it, development is impossible.” He suggested a national education summit to address funding, autonomy, and academic welfare.
