The Federal Government of Nigeria is set to meet with the leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) on Monday to address the union’s demands and prevent another strike in the university system.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, during his appearance on the Beyond 100 Days program aired on Television Continental (TVC) on Thursday.
ASUU recently issued a 21-day ultimatum to the government following its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting at the University of Ibadan, raising concerns about unresolved issues affecting the university system.
“We received the notice of strike from ASUU on Monday and immediately began reviewing the issues. We will meet with ASUU to discuss these concerns on Monday,” Prof. Mamman confirmed.
The Minister acknowledged the historic nature of some of ASUU’s demands, referencing the 2009 agreement and the long-standing challenges dating back to 1981.
He stated, “We share ASUU’s vision for a robust university system, but it’s important to approach these issues pragmatically, recognizing what can be achieved immediately, in the short term, and over time.”
According to him, the upcoming meeting will focus on key issues raised by ASUU, including the conclusion of the renegotiation of the FGN/ASUU Agreement based on the Nimi Briggs Committee’s draft agreement of 2021, the release of withheld salaries due to the 2022 strike action, and the funding for the revitalization of public universities, among others.
Prof. Mamman also noted that the government is engaging with relevant agencies, including the Ministry of Finance, to facilitate the implementation of the necessary financial commitments.
He expressed optimism that the discussions on Monday would lead to positive outcomes.
