FG Urges ASUU to Suspend Strike, Warns of ‘No Work, No Pay’

The Federal Government has appealed to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to reconsider its decision to embark on a nationwide strike, stressing that dialogue remains the most effective path to resolving disputes in the education sector.

In a joint statement issued on Sunday, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, said the government had presented a comprehensive offer addressing ASUU’s key demands and was awaiting the Union’s official response.

According to the statement, the government’s proposal covers crucial areas such as staff welfare, institutional governance, and improved working conditions. The ministers added that President Bola Tinubu’s administration had approved an enhanced Teaching Allowance to recognise the value of academic work and boost lecturers’ morale.

“All matters relating to the review of conditions of service have been duly addressed, except those under the jurisdiction of university governing councils, which are being handled accordingly,” the statement read. “The Federal Government remains open to continued engagement with ASUU once their formal response is received.”

The ministers emphasised that the Tinubu administration had shown “demonstrable commitment” to strengthening the education sector through timely interventions and policy reforms. However, they expressed disappointment that ASUU had chosen to proceed with the planned strike despite ongoing negotiations.

While reaffirming the government’s commitment to the welfare of university lecturers, they cautioned that the principle of “No Work, No Pay” would be enforced if the strike went ahead.

“The government remains committed to peaceful dialogue, but it will not hesitate to uphold existing labour laws to protect the integrity of the education system,” the statement warned.

The ministers also clarified that some of ASUU’s demands, such as issues relating to internal governance, staff appointments, and promotions, fall under the purview of university governing councils and should be handled at the institutional level in line with existing regulations.

They assured Nigerians that the Federal Government remains open to constructive engagement with ASUU and other stakeholders to ensure lasting stability in the university system.

“The administration’s consistent interventions reflect its dedication to revitalising universities, improving staff welfare, and ensuring uninterrupted academic calendars,” the statement added.

“The future of our students and the stability of our universities must come first. The Federal Government stands ready to continue discussions with ASUU to consolidate progress already made in welfare, infrastructure, and institutional reforms,” the ministers concluded.