ASUU Decries Government Inaction, Signals Possible Strike

 The Academic Staff Union of Universities has voiced frustration over the Federal Government’s slow response to its demands, warning of potential strike action to press for change.

On August 27, 2025, ASUU President Christopher Piwuna, speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, expressed dismay at the Federal Government’s sluggish response to the union’s longstanding demands. Highlighting unresolved issues from the 2009 ASUU-FGN agreement, including salary arrears and university funding, Piwuna stressed that lecturers have shown immense patience. The union’s nationwide protest on August 26 underscored the government’s neglect, following a strike warning issued on August 21.

Piwuna criticized the administration of President Bola Tinubu, noting engagements with two Education Ministers have yielded little progress. He questioned the government’s efficiency, urging faster action to address lecturers’ welfare and prevent school closures. ASUU accused the government of pushing the union toward strike action by ignoring pleas for dialogue, emphasizing the need for revitalized public universities to meet Nigeria’s educational needs.

The protest has reignited debates about Nigeria’s education system, with some supporting ASUU’s push for accountability, while others urge compromise to avoid disruptions. The standoff, testing the government’s commitment to education, highlights systemic challenges. As ASUU prepares for further action, Piwuna’s warning signals a critical juncture, urging swift resolution to safeguard Nigeria’s academic future.