Federal Government Strives to Prevent University Shutdown Amidst Ongoing Disputes and Protests

The federal government is intensifying efforts to prevent a nationwide strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), which threatens to halt academic activities across all public universities. Last night, sources confirmed that officials from the Ministries of Labour and Education are scheduled to meet with ASUU leaders to find a resolution.

This development comes ahead of an August deadline set by ASUU, after which members warned they would shut down their institutions due to unresolved issues, including unpaid salaries, non-implementation of agreements, and inadequate funding. The union’s recent protests, including a widespread walkout on Tuesday, have already disrupted academic schedules and signaled their readiness to escalate if demands are not met.

Folasade Biriowo, spokesperson for the Ministry of Education, disclosed that a crucial meeting is planned for Thursday to negotiate and avert a potential strike. However, ASUU President Prof. Chris Piwuna stated that the union has not received any official invitation, raising questions about the sincerity of government efforts.

Key issues fueling the crisis include the non-signing of the 2009 renegotiated agreement, delayed salaries, unpaid promotion arrears, and the non-release of revitalization funds to improve university infrastructure. Additionally, protests have erupted over the renaming of the University of Maiduguri, proposed changes to lecturers' retirement benefits, and non-remittance of third-party deductions.

In an interview, Prof. Piwuna emphasized that despite ongoing dialogue, the government has failed to implement any of the agreements reached, citing poor conditions of service and salaries as driving factors behind the mass exodus of Nigerian academics to other African countries. He warned that if campuses remain closed, over two million students nationwide could be affected, with at least 150 universities impacted.

The union leader called for collective action, urging media, religious, traditional, and civil society groups to support reforms in the education sector. He stressed that ASUU’s fight is for a better future for Nigeria, not just for the union itself.

Education expert Dr. Suleiman Babayo warned that continued neglect could lead to the collapse of Nigeria’s already struggling higher education system, causing prolonged delays in graduations and career advancement, and discouraging prospective students from enrolling.

Babayo criticized the government's habit of engaging with ASUU only when a strike looms and urged the authorities to honor existing agreements by releasing funds and paying owed entitlements. He emphasized that resolving the crisis is simply a matter of political will and proper prioritization, suggesting that a serious commitment could resolve the issue within a week.

As tensions remain high, all eyes are on the government and ASUU to reach an agreement that will restore stability to Nigeria’s universities and safeguard the future of its youth.