The Federal Government of Nigeria and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have reached a compromise to prevent the impending strike that the union had announced earlier this month. ASUU had issued a 21-day strike notice on August 19, following their National Executive Council (NEC) meeting at the University of Ibadan, citing unmet demands by the government.
During a meeting held in Abuja on Wednesday, both parties agreed to establish a sub-committee to review ASUU’s demands. The meeting, which lasted approximately two and a half hours, was facilitated by the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, and included ASUU’s leadership led by National President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke.
Addressing the press after the closed-door session, the Minister stated that both sides agreed to reconvene on September 6, 2024. Mamman highlighted that the sub-committee would work to address all outstanding issues before the next meeting.
Prof. Osodeke expressed optimism that all matters would be resolved amicably before the September 6 deadline, emphasizing ASUU’s commitment to protecting the interests of Nigerian students. The union’s strike notice is set to expire on September 9, three days after the rescheduled meeting.
In response to ASUU’s demands, the Minister also announced the formation of an implementation monitoring committee for the NEEDS Assessment intervention fund for Nigerian public universities. ASUU is advocating for comprehensive reforms in the university system, including improved infrastructure, enhanced academic freedom, and a sustainable funding model. Other key demands include the release of revitalisation funds for universities, renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/ASUU agreement, and payment of earned allowances for university lecturers.
The outcome of the upcoming meeting on September 6 is crucial, as both parties aim to find lasting solutions to the ongoing crisis in the education sector.
