By Ameh Gabriel
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its determination to permanently resolve the lingering crisis with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and ensure uninterrupted academic activities across Nigerian universities.
This was contained in a statement signed on 29th August 2025 by Mrs. Boriowo Folasade
Director, Press and Public Relations Federal Ministry of Education
According to the statement, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Ministry of Education to work closely with all relevant stakeholders to deliver a sustainable and constitutionally sound agreement with the union.
He stressed that the administration would no longer endorse “unsustainable agreements” but instead pursue practical and affordable solutions that safeguard the future of higher education in Nigeria.
“Mr. President has mandated myself and the Honorable Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, to work with all stakeholders to resolve this issue once and for all. Nigerians can be assured that this process is being handled with diligence, accountability, and honesty of purpose,” Dr. Alausa stated.
The Minister assured that recent ASUU protests would not degenerate into strike action, noting that government engagement with the union has remained consistent and constructive. He disclosed that progress has already been recorded on some key demands, including the mainstreaming of earned academic allowances, while clarifying that the outstanding 25/35 percent wage arrears will be settled once payments to other public servants commence.
At a high-level meeting held at the Ministry, officials present included the Minister of Labour and Productivity, the Solicitor-General of the Federation, Permanent Secretaries from the Ministries of Education, Labour and Justice, the Executive Secretary of the NUC, the Executive Secretary of TETFund, the Budget Office, and the Chairman of the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission. The session thoroughly reviewed ASUU’s proposals.
A technical committee chaired by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mr. Abel Enitan, has been inaugurated to produce a counter-draft agreement for submission to the Yayale Ahmed-led Committee, which will engage ASUU further. The Ministry of Justice is fully involved this time to ensure that the final agreement is constitutionally compliant.
Dr. Alausa expressed optimism that with dialogue and mutual respect, the recurring cycle of strikes will be broken:
“This government does not want strikes. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu strongly believes that young people are the heartbeat of this nation, and he is determined to keep our children in school. We are committed to this task with sincerity, transparency, and respect for all parties.”
The Federal Government appealed to Nigerians for patience and support as it works toward sealing a durable agreement that will end the 16-year stalemate in the university system.
It’s interesting how online platforms are raising the bar for user experience! Seeing robust verification processes, like with ph778 legit, builds trust. A smooth signup & secure play are key for Filipino gamers, right? Definitely a growing space!