Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Nigeria’s Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a four-day ultimatum to the federal government, demanding immediate implementation of a newly approved salary structure for academic staff across public universities. The union warned that failure to comply would trigger strong action, potentially including industrial measures that could disrupt academic activities nationwide.
The ultimatum was announced by ASUU president Christopher Piwuna during a public address at Sa’adu Zungur University, Yuli campus, in Bauchi State. Piwuna explained that the deadline takes effect immediately and is intended to compel the government to commence payments under the new salary arrangement, which was formally agreed towards the end of 2025 but has yet to be implemented.
According to the union, the delay in implementation undermines morale among university lecturers and threatens the overall stability of the higher education system. Many lecturers have expressed frustration over the government’s failure to honor past agreements in a timely manner, citing challenges such as declining real wages, rising inflation, and increased financial pressures that affect their livelihoods.
Piwuna stressed that ASUU has exercised considerable restraint in recent months, opting for dialogue and engagement rather than immediate strikes. However, he warned that the patience of lecturers is wearing thin, and the union is prepared to take decisive action if the government does not respond within the stipulated timeframe.
While specific details of the new salary structure were not fully disclosed during the address, it is expected to include adjustments to pay scales, allowances, and welfare packages aimed at addressing long-standing concerns among academic staff. The union emphasized that the changes are essential for retaining talent within Nigeria’s university system, which has faced challenges related to brain drain and declining competitiveness in recent years.
The warning comes amid broader tensions between ASUU and the federal government, which have frequently escalated into prolonged strikes affecting millions of students. Previous disputes have often centered on funding, salaries, and working conditions, highlighting systemic challenges in Nigeria’s higher education sector.
Education stakeholders, including university administrators, students, and parents, have expressed concern over the potential consequences of another confrontation. Analysts note that sustainable solutions require not only addressing salary disputes but also implementing broader reforms to strengthen the sector, improve funding mechanisms, and ensure timely execution of agreements.
As of the announcement, the federal government had not issued an official response to the ultimatum. Negotiations are expected to intensify in the coming days, with both parties under pressure to reach a resolution that avoids disruption to academic activities. The outcome will have significant implications for the continuity and stability of public universities across the country.
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