The Academic Staff Union of Universities is set to hold a crucial National Executive Council meeting on Wednesday to determine its next course of action after the Federal Government’s renegotiation committee, led by Yayale Ahmed, wrapped up its latest round of talks.
In a bid to stave off another nationwide shutdown of public universities, the government team resumed discussions with ASUU on Monday. A senior NEC member confirmed that the engagement, which opened yesterday, would wind down on Tuesday.
“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 official said, noting that members have been instructed to limit media interactions until negotiations end.
ASUU’s 30-day ultimatum to the Federal Government expired on Saturday, raising concerns on campuses across the country. The union has repeatedly warned that it may declare a comprehensive strike, accusing government officials of treating critical issues affecting public universities with a “nonchalant” attitude.
At the centre of the dispute are unresolved matters such as the review of the 2009 ASUU–FG agreement, unpaid salaries and earned allowances, and funding for university revitalisation.
Despite these issues, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, who is currently outside the country, maintains that the administration has substantially addressed ASUU’s demands. Speaking at the State House two weeks ago, he emphasised President Bola Tinubu’s instruction that industrial action must be avoided.
“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.”
The Nigeria Labour Congress has thrown its weight behind ASUU, warning that it is prepared to “fight alongside the academic community” if the government fails to meet the union’s expectations.
