The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is preparing for a potential full-scale nationwide strike. This comes as negotiations with the Federal Government remain deadlocked, with the union’s one-month ultimatum set to expire soon.
Key Highlights from the Press Briefing
During a Monday press conference in Kano, ASUU’s Kano Zonal Coordinator, Abdulkadir Muhammad, expressed the union’s mounting frustration. The briefing followed a recent zonal meeting where members discussed ongoing issues.
The ultimatum follows the suspension of a warning strike in October. That action aimed to push the government to address critical demands, including:
– Improved welfare for lecturers
– Better teaching and learning environments in public universities
Muhammad described the government’s approach to renegotiations as “lackadaisical.” He stressed that these talks are vital for reviving Nigeria’s ailing university system.
Participating Institutions
The zonal meeting brought together representatives from several universities, including:
– Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
– Bayero University Kano (BUK)
– Kaduna State University (KASU)
– Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology (ADUSTECH), Wudil
– Federal University Dutse (FUD)
– Northwest University (NWU), Kano
– Sule Lamido University (SLUK), Kafin Hausa
Background from National Meeting
This warning builds on ASUU’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held November 8-9 at Taraba State University. There, leaders highlighted their dissatisfaction with the slow pace of discussions.
Muhammad noted that suspending the October strike was a “goodwill gesture” to encourage dialogue and support the Nigerian public. However, he warned that hope for a quick resolution is fading.
“Our expectations for a comprehensive and prompt resolution are fading fast,” Muhammad said.
Accusations Against the Government
The coordinator accused some officials of sabotaging the process through:
– Underhanded tactics to undermine negotiations
– Spreading misinformation about ASUU’s engagements
Core concerns include the government’s failure to:
– Improve working conditions for academics
– Combat brain drain in Nigerian universities
Muhammad argued that current proposals won’t attract international scholars or enhance local conditions for educators. He urged the public to ignore claims that ASUU’s demands have already been met.
Call for Policy Changes
ASUU is pushing for a moratorium on new state universities, similar to restrictions on federal ones. Muhammad criticized governors for creating universities without proper funding plans.
Echoes of Past Disputes
This situation mirrors previous conflicts, where ASUU has accused the government of insincerity and deliberate delays. With the ultimatum nearing its end, all eyes are on potential breakthroughs to prevent campus shutdowns across the country.
Stakeholders, including students and parents, are urged to stay informed as developments unfold.