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The Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, has declared a two-week warning strike.
ASUU President, Chris Piwuna said the warning strike is a window for the government to conclude negotiations with the body.
He disclosed this during a press conference at ASUU Headquarters at UniAbuja.
Piwuna charged members of the body across Nigeria to withdraw their services effective midnight.
He accused the government of insincerity in the negotiations, leading to the implementation of the union’s demands.
Meanwhile the Federal Government has appealed to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to reconsider its planned two-week warning strike, stressing that dialogue remains the most effective means of resolving ongoing disputes in Nigeria’s university system, News360 Nigeria reports.
In a joint statement issued by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, the government said it has made a comprehensive offer addressing ASUU’s key demands, including improved working conditions, institutional governance, and lecturers’ welfare.
According to the statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a new Teaching Allowance aimed at rewarding the value of academic work and motivating lecturers across public universities.
The Ministers noted that while most issues raised by ASUU have been addressed, matters within the jurisdiction of university governing councils—such as appointments and promotions—are already being handled at the institutional level.
They expressed disappointment that ASUU appears determined to go ahead with the strike despite the government’s ongoing engagement and open commitment to resolving the issues.
The statement reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare of lecturers and the stability of the university system, adding that ongoing education sector reforms are guided by principles of fairness, accountability, and institutional strengthening.
However, the Ministers cautioned that the government will invoke the “No Work, No Pay” rule if ASUU proceeds with its planned strike, as it remains an established provision under Nigerian labour law.
“While government remains committed to peaceful dialogue, it will equally enforce existing laws to protect the integrity of our education system and ensure accountability,” the statement warned.
The Federal Government reiterated its readiness for continuous dialogue with ASUU and other stakeholders to ensure uninterrupted academic calendars and improved infrastructure across universities.
“The government has shown sincerity and commitment through engagements and policy actions. We are confident that, with continued dialogue, every legitimate concern can be resolved without shutting down our campuses.”
“Our students must remain in school,” the statement concluded.
