The Federal Government has restated its commitment to engaging the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) in dialogue aimed at resolving outstanding issues affecting the country’s university system.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmed, made this known on Sunday, 12th October 2025, reaffirming that the government remains steadfast in its pursuit of lasting industrial harmony in the education sector.
According to the ministers, the government has demonstrated sincerity and patience in its discussions with ASUU, addressing most of the union’s demands — including the review of teaching allowances and the improvement of conditions of service for academic staff. They added that the few unresolved matters fall within the purview of the newly reconstituted governing councils of universities.
Despite these efforts, the ministers expressed disappointment that ASUU has chosen to embark on strike action instead of continuing dialogue, describing the decision as unfair to students and the general public. They maintained that the government had met agreed deadlines in presenting its positions to the union.
“The Federal Government remains committed to dialogue as the most effective and sustainable means of resolving disagreements,” the statement read. “We urge ASUU to reconsider its position and return to the negotiation table in the collective interest of students and the education system.”
The ministers also reaffirmed that the “no work, no pay” policy remains a valid labour law that will guide government actions should academic activities be disrupted. They stressed that while government continues to show goodwill, it must also uphold fairness and accountability in managing public resources.
Reassuring Nigerian students and parents, the ministers said the government will continue to safeguard the stability of the academic calendar under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. They appealed to all academic unions to embrace partnership rather than confrontation to foster progress in higher education.
The statement concluded by reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to education reform, improved governance, and an enabling environment that promotes productivity, innovation, and mutual respect within the university system.
