The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is on the brink of initiating a nationwide strike, citing several critical concerns left unaddressed by the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu.
A key issue fuelling the union’s anger is the government’s failure to appoint Governing Councils for Federal Universities. These councils play a vital role in university governance, overseeing matters such as strategic planning, financial management, and the appointment of key university officials. The absence of these councils creates uncertainty and disrupts the proper functioning of universities.
Furthermore, ASUU is deeply critical of the recent salary increment for university staff. The union views the 35% increase for professors and the 25% increase for other academics as a “wage award” rather than a permanent improvement to their salaries. Wage awards can be withdrawn by the government at any time, leaving lecturers with a sense of insecurity regarding their financial well-being.
ASUU President, Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, expressed frustration with the government’s inaction on these issues. He emphasised that the union has given the Tinubu administration ample time to address their concerns but has seen little progress.
Professor Osodeke also highlighted the illegality surrounding the government’s dissolution of the Governing Councils. He argued that the dissolution violated established university governance principles, further destabilising the university system.
This situation stems from a broader directive issued by President Tinubu on 22nd June 2023, ordering the dissolution of the boards of all government parastatals, agencies, and companies. The National Universities Commission (NUC) subsequently followed suit, dissolving the Governing Councils of all federal universities on the same basis.
The potential strike by ASUU would be a significant blow to Nigeria’s already-strained university system. Previous strikes have resulted in lengthy disruptions to academic activities, causing immense hardship for students and faculty alike.
The government needs to have meaningful dialogue with ASUU to address their concerns and prevent a nationwide strike. This includes finding a solution for the appointment of Governing Councils, negotiating a sustainable salary increase for university staff, and ensuring adherence to established university governance principles. Only through such efforts can the government ensure a stable and productive learning environment for Nigerian students.
