The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Nigerian Federal Government to resolve several unresolved matters, warning of potential industrial action if their demands are not met.
ASUU, which represents academic staff in Nigeria’s public universities, is pressing for the finalization of the renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/ASUU Agreement, based on the recommendations of the Nimi Briggs Committee’s Draft Agreement of 2021.
In a statement on Wednesday, ASUU President Emmanuel Osodeke expressed frustration with what he described as the government’s lack of commitment and continued delays, accusing officials of fueling a crisis in the university system.
“ASUU resolves to give the Nigerian Government another 14 days, in addition to the earlier 21 days, beginning from Monday, September 23, 2024, during which all the lingering issues must have been addressed to the satisfaction of the union’s members,” Osodeke said.
The union warned that it should not be blamed for any industrial disruption if the government fails to act within the given timeframe.
In addition to the 2021 agreement, ASUU is calling for the release of unpaid salaries for staff in sabbatical, part-time, and adjunct positions affected by the government’s payroll system, as well as the payment of outstanding deductions for check-off dues and cooperative contributions.
ASUU is also seeking funding for the revitalization of public universities, partly included in the 2023 Federal Budget, and the payment of outstanding Earned Academic Allowances.
The ultimatum raises concerns about another potential strike, which could disrupt Nigeria’s already strained public education system.