The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a stern warning to the federal government, threatening a nationwide strike if the 2009 FG/ASUU agreement is not fulfilled. ASUU President Chris Piwuna stated this during a press conference in Abuja, expressing frustration over the government’s failure to resolve nine critical issues plaguing Nigeria’s public universities.
The ASUU president highlighted the stalled renegotiation of the agreement since 2017 as part of the unresolved issues.
He mentioned the withholding of salaries from the 2022 strike and unpaid entitlements linked to the controversial Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).
Piwuna also criticised the government’s delay in releasing revitalisation funds and earned academic allowances.
He said commitments remain unfulfilled despite pledges to inject N150 billion into the university system and adjust irregular allowances by 2026.
Piwuna alleged the marginalisation of ASUU members at state-owned institutions like Kogi State University and Lagos State University.
He cited victimisation, job insecurity, and salary denials in those institutions, adding that these issues undermine staff morale.
He argued that universities are becoming “battlegrounds for political and economic interests”.
He said political interference has compromised the selection of leaders in institutions such as Nnamdi Azikiwe University and the University of Abuja.
The ASUU president called for a “national rebirth through education”. He proposed an education summit focused on funding, university autonomy and academic welfare.
“Education empowers citizens, drives innovation, and instils values. Without it, development is impossible,” Piwuna emphasized. “Our universities should be centres for solutions to national challenges. We are open to dialogue but will not tolerate further erosion of our rights.”
