The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has warned it may embark on an indefinite nationwide strike, accusing the federal government of failing to honour agreements and address long-standing grievances.
The union says the 2009 ASUU-FGN Agreement which promised improved funding, revitalisation of universities, and better working conditions remains largely unimplemented 16 years later.
It is also demanding the payment of withheld salaries, promotion arrears, revitalisation funds, and remittances of third-party deductions.
ASUU President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, accused the government of treating education with “a lack of seriousness and sincerity,” warning that repeated neglect is pushing public universities toward collapse.
Government officials, however, insist dialogue is ongoing.
Education Minister Olatunji Alausa recently assured that “children will remain in school,” but many observers view the statement as empty rhetoric given the government’s track record.
Students remain the biggest casualties of the crisis, with repeated strikes disrupting academic calendars, delaying graduations, and undermining confidence in the system.
The coming days are expected to determine whether universities resume smoothly for the new academic session or face yet another shutdown.
