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In a bid to avert a looming strike, the Federal Government will meet with leaders of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and other key stakeholders on Monday, following the union’s recent strike notice.
Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, disclosed this development during a press briefing on Friday in Abuja, marking his first year in office. The minister acknowledged the urgency of the situation and the government’s commitment to addressing the union’s grievances.
ASUU had previously issued a 21-day strike notice, highlighting unresolved issues including revitalization funds for public universities, the payment of outstanding earned academic allowances, and the release of withheld salaries. These demands, which have long plagued Nigeria’s academic sector, have once again brought the union and the government to the negotiating table.
Mamman revealed that letters of invitation had already been dispatched to ASUU leadership and other relevant organizations to ensure comprehensive discussions. “Most of the issues raised by ASUU are being attended to,” he assured, noting that while significant progress has been made, bureaucratic hurdles have slowed the resolution process. “The issue of exit from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) has been resolved by the President, but bureaucracy has caused delays.”
Read also: Abia: ASUU Protests Non-Payment Of Salaries To Staff
The minister expressed optimism about the upcoming meeting, stating, “We anticipate that by the time we meet, many of these concerns will be addressed and resolved.” His confidence reflects the administration’s determination to maintain academic stability, a priority that has often been tested by recurring industrial actions in the education sector.
Mamman further emphasized President Bola Tinubu’s dedication to preventing disruptions in the academic calendar. “Most of ASUU’s demands date back to 1981, and every government has faced ASUU strikes,” he remarked, underscoring the historical context of the ongoing challenges. However, he stressed that this administration is committed to breaking the cycle. “We are determined to do everything possible to avoid a strike,” he affirmed, signaling the government’s readiness to engage constructively and find lasting solutions to the union’s demands.
