In a major development that could shape the future of Nigeria’s university system, the Federal Government has made a fresh offer to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), urging the union to reconsider any plans that could lead to another academic shutdown. The new offer comes as the government appeals for continued dialogue, emphasizing that further disruptions could negatively impact students and the academic calendar nationwide.
The government, represented by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, disclosed that it has taken significant steps to address the longstanding concerns of the lecturers’ union, including welfare packages, working conditions, and institutional reforms.
FG Reassures ASUU of Commitment to Welfare and Reforms
According to the statement, the Federal Government has presented a “comprehensive offer” that it says covers nearly all the contentious issues that have caused friction with ASUU in recent years. Dr. Alausa explained that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to improving the welfare of Nigerian university lecturers while ensuring that academic activities across campuses remain uninterrupted.
He revealed that part of the government’s new proposal includes a reviewed teaching allowance aimed at recognizing the value of academic work and motivating lecturers to deliver quality education. This move, according to him, aligns with President Tinubu’s vision for a revitalized and productive education system where lecturers are not only respected but adequately compensated for their contributions to national development.
The minister emphasized that the government has gone beyond rhetoric this time, providing tangible frameworks for implementation. He added that all matters relating to the conditions of service of academic staff have been reviewed, except for a few that fall within the jurisdiction of university governing councils.
“We Have Done Our Part” – FG Draws the Line
In the statement, the Federal Government clarified that while it remains open to continued negotiation, certain demands from ASUU fall under the authority of individual university councils. These include issues surrounding appointments, internal promotions, and specific administrative decisions that universities have autonomy to handle.
Dr. Alausa stressed that the federal ministry cannot directly interfere in matters that are constitutionally assigned to university managements, reaffirming the administration’s respect for institutional autonomy. He however maintained that the government’s latest offer demonstrates a clear commitment to restoring confidence and stability in Nigeria’s higher education sector.
“We have fulfilled our obligations as a government within the available resources,” the minister said. “What remains are matters that must be addressed by the university councils in accordance with their mandates. It is important for ASUU to acknowledge these boundaries and work collaboratively toward solutions that do not jeopardize the academic calendar.”
Government Warns Against Strike, Reaffirms ‘No Work, No Pay’ Policy
In a stern reminder, the government warned ASUU against embarking on any industrial action that could once again disrupt learning across universities. Citing the existing labour laws, the Federal Government reiterated that the “No Work, No Pay” policy remains active and enforceable should lecturers proceed with a strike.
Dr. Alausa noted that the government has made genuine efforts to meet most of the union’s demands and therefore expects the union to reciprocate by maintaining industrial harmony. “The nation cannot afford another disruption in the academic system,” he stated. “Students, parents, and the economy have all suffered enough from the repeated closures of universities.”
The minister further appealed to ASUU to consider the broader impact of strikes, emphasizing that constant interruptions not only demoralize students but also tarnish the global reputation of Nigeria’s educational institutions.
FG Calls for Dialogue and Collaboration
Reiterating the administration’s preference for dialogue over confrontation, the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, assured that the government remains open to constructive engagement. She called on ASUU to embrace dialogue as the only viable path toward sustainable solutions.
Professor Ahmad explained that the government’s offer is not a political move but part of a sincere effort to end the recurring crises in the university system. She added that regular consultation between the government, university management, and academic unions would ensure that future disagreements are resolved amicably without shutting down institutions.
What This Means for Students and the Academic Calendar
The government’s latest offer signals a strong desire to stabilize the country’s university system after years of tension between ASUU and successive administrations. If accepted by the union, it could bring relief to millions of students who have endured repeated disruptions and delayed graduations.
Observers, however, note that the outcome will largely depend on how ASUU perceives the sincerity and practicality of the government’s offer. In the past, similar promises have often collapsed due to lack of implementation, budgetary constraints, or mistrust between both parties.
Still, there is cautious optimism that this renewed engagement could lead to a lasting resolution, especially given the administration’s stated commitment to reforming tertiary education and improving staff welfare.
Outlook: Hope for Lasting Stability
As the nation watches closely, all eyes are now on ASUU’s leadership to respond to the government’s fresh proposal. Education analysts have called for both sides to act with responsibility and mutual respect, warning that another strike could deepen the crisis already facing Nigeria’s universities.
The Federal Government’s latest statement underscores its desire to avoid another nationwide disruption while reaffirming its readiness to implement genuine reforms. For students, parents, and lecturers alike, the hope remains that both parties will prioritize dialogue, accountability, and the collective interest of the Nigerian educational system.
