The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has warned that it may embark on a nationwide strike if the federal government fails to honor the 2009 agreement.
Speaking at a news conference in Abuja, ASUU President Chris Piwuna stressed the need for the government to address the deteriorating conditions in Nigerian universities.
He outlined nine critical issues that remain unresolved, including the stalled renegotiation process since 2017.
Piwuna also cited withheld salaries from the 2022 strike and unpaid entitlements linked to the controversial Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).
The ASUU president condemned the delayed release of revitalization funds and earned academic allowances, blaming government inaction.
He noted that despite promises to inject ₦150 billion into universities and adjust irregular allowances by 2026, these commitments remain unfulfilled.
Piwuna accused the government of marginalizing ASUU members, citing cases in Kogi State University and Lagos State University.
“Victimisation, salary denial, and job insecurity persist in those universities, undermining staff morale,” he said.
Political Interference in University Autonomy
He warned that political interference is compromising university autonomy, with some leaders mobilized against their colleagues.
He pointed to Nnamdi Azikiwe University and the University of Abuja, where political and economic interests have influenced leadership decisions.
“Universities are becoming battlegrounds for political and economic interests. This is unacceptable,” Piwuna stated.
Piwuna called for a national education summit to address funding, autonomy, and academic welfare.
“Education empowers citizens, drives innovation, and instils values. Without it, development is impossible,” he said.
He reaffirmed ASUU’s commitment to reforming Nigerian universities and urged Nigerians and global allies to support the union’s struggle.
“Our universities should be centres for solutions to national challenges. We are open to dialogue but will not tolerate further erosion of our rights,” Piwuna declared.
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