Reported by: Ijeoma .G | Edited by Henry Owen
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government of Nigeria, warning that failure to address long-standing grievances may trigger an indefinite strike across federal and state universities. The announcement followed the National Executive Council meeting held on Sunday at the University of Abuja and marks the latest escalation in tensions between the union and government authorities.
In a statement signed by ASUU National President Chris Piwuna, the union decried what it called the persistent neglect of the university system and the repeated refusal of the federal and state governments to address critical issues affecting academics and the higher education sector. “Despite engaging the press and organizing peaceful rallies in August 2025, our pleas continue to fall on deaf ears. It is clear that the education sector, and particularly the welfare of university academics, remains low on the national priority list,” the union said.
The issues at the heart of the dispute include the re-negotiation of the 2009 ASUU-Federal Government agreement, sustainable funding for universities, revitalization of the tertiary education system, and the alleged victimization of staff in institutions such as LASU, Prince Abubakar Audu University, and FUTO. Additionally, the union raised concerns over outstanding salary arrears of 25 to 35 percent, promotion delays exceeding four years, and irregularities in third-party deductions.
ASUU emphasized that failure to resolve these issues within the 14-day ultimatum may result in a two-week warning strike, followed by a total and indefinite industrial action. The announcement has sparked widespread reactions among students, parents, educators, and education experts.
For students, the threat of another strike is met with frustration and apprehension. At the University of Lagos, Chima Obi, a student leader, said, “We understand the lecturers’ grievances, but strikes disrupt our academic progress. Students are the ones who suffer the most, missing lectures, losing time for research, and delaying graduation. The government must negotiate immediately to prevent further disruption.”
Parents share similar concerns. Mrs. Grace Adeyemi, a mother in Abuja, stressed, “Our children have already lost valuable academic time to past strikes. Another indefinite strike could jeopardize their future, affecting admissions, graduations, and job prospects. The government must act fast.”
Education analysts warn that unresolved disputes could have long-term consequences on Nigeria’s intellectual and economic development. Dr. Chinedu Okeke, a policy analyst, noted, “ASUU’s ultimatum highlights systemic problems in Nigerian higher education. Prolonged neglect of funding, infrastructure, and staff welfare undermines the country’s ability to produce skilled graduates who can compete globally. Addressing these issues requires urgency, transparency, and adherence to agreements.”
Civil society and advocacy groups have also weighed in, calling for dialogue to avert a nationwide crisis. Aisha Bello, director of a youth advocacy NGO, said, “Education is central to national progress. Indefinite strikes not only affect students but also weaken social cohesion and economic growth. The Federal Government must engage ASUU meaningfully to protect the future of the country.”
University lecturers, meanwhile, reaffirm the union’s position, arguing that consistent inaction by the government leaves them no choice. Dr. Joseph Nwankwo, a senior lecturer in Abuja, said, “We have been patient, raising our concerns repeatedly. When our demands are ignored, industrial action becomes the only tool left to assert the rights and welfare of academics.”
Observers suggest that the situation could escalate quickly if the government fails to respond within the stipulated period, with potential ripple effects across multiple sectors of the economy. Beyond academic delays, analysts warn of broader social consequences, including increased youth unemployment and reduced capacity for innovation, both vital for national development.
As the 14-day ultimatum commences, attention now turns to the Federal Government’s response. Experts emphasize that swift and constructive negotiations are essential to preserve the integrity of Nigeria’s university system, safeguard students’ educational trajectories, and ensure stability in the higher education sector.
The unfolding situation underscores the fragile balance between government policy, academic welfare, and the expectations of students and parents, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in Nigeria’s tertiary education sector.
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