The Federal Government (FG) has called on the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to suspend its ongoing industrial action, warning that it will invoke the โno aork, no payโ policy should the strike proceed.
In a joint statement signed by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Ahmad, the government emphasised that continued constructive dialogue is the most effective way to resolve all outstanding issues in the tertiary education sector.
The ministers disclosed that the FG has presented a comprehensive offer to the union, which is still pending an official response from ASUU.
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This offer, they maintained, addresses the union’s primary concerns, including staff welfare, working conditions, and institutional governance.
They noted that the administration of President Bola Tinubu has approved a “robust Teaching Allowance” aimed at motivating and reflecting the value of academic work across public universities.
The ministers stressed that the FG has shown “demonstrable commitment and sincerity” through financial interventions and prompt policy responses, contrasting this with ASUU’s apparent determination to proceed with the strike despite ongoing engagement.
They clarified that all matters concerning the review of conditions of service have been duly addressed, except certain issues like appointments, promotions, and internal governance, which are statutory responsibilities falling under the jurisdiction of individual university governing councils.
The union was urged to allow these institutional matters to be handled at the university level.
Crucially, the government reiterated its intention to apply the “no work, no pay” principle, which remains an extant provision of Nigerian labour law, if ASUU disrupts academic activities.
“While the government remains committed to peaceful dialogue, it will equally enforce existing laws to protect the integrity of our education system and ensure accountability,” they cautioned.
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The ministers assured the public that the government is ready to work with ASUU to consolidate gains in infrastructure, staff welfare, and institutional reforms, insisting that the stability of the university system and the future of Nigerian students must take priority over disputes.
