Efforts to stop a potential nationwide ASUU strike intensified on Monday as the government’s renegotiation team resumed talks with the Academic Staff Union of Universities. The discussions, which began yesterday, are expected to wrap up today (Tuesday).
A senior member of the ASUU National Executive Council, who requested anonymity due to restrictions on public comment during the negotiations, confirmed the development.
“The renegotiation meeting started on Monday and will end on Tuesday. After that, NEC will meet and determine our next steps by Wednesday. Everyone will know the outcome then,” the source said.
ASUU’s one-month ultimatum to the Federal Government expired on Saturday, heightening tension across public universities. Over the past weeks, the union has warned of a full strike, accusing the government of neglecting its long-standing commitments.
Key issues on the table include the review of the 2009 ASUU–Federal Government agreement, payment of outstanding salaries and earned allowances, and the release of revitalisation funds for public universities.
Despite ASUU’s concerns, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa—currently outside the country—maintains that the government has met the union’s major demands. Speaking to State House correspondents two weeks earlier, he restated the administration’s determination to avoid any disruption to academic activities.
“As I told you, the President has mandated us that he doesn’t want ASUU to go on strike, and we’re doing everything humanly possible to ensure that our students stay in school,” he said.
“We’ve met nearly all their requirements and have returned to the negotiation table. We will resolve this.”
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Labour Congress has thrown its weight behind ASUU, warning that it will stand with the union if the government fails to address the issues raised.
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