By Ihechi Enyinnaya
The Federal Government of Nigeria has appealed to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to reconsider its decision to embark on strike, stressing that constructive dialogue remains the most effective and sustainable path toward resolving outstanding issues in the tertiary education sector.
In a joint statement released on Sunday, October 12, 2025, by the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, and the Honourable Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, the government said it has made a comprehensive offer to ASUU and is still awaiting the union’s official response.
The statement noted that the government’s offer addresses the union’s major concerns, including working conditions, institutional governance, and staff welfare.
According to the Ministers, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has approved a robust Teaching Allowance that reflects the value of academic work and is aimed at motivating lecturers in public universities.
“All matters relating to the review of conditions of service have been duly addressed, except those within the jurisdiction of individual university governing councils, which are actively being handled,” the statement read. “The Federal Government remains open and committed to continued engagement with ASUU once their formal response to the offer is received.”
The Ministers further expressed disappointment that ASUU has not reciprocated the government’s goodwill, despite ongoing engagements and financial interventions in the education sector.
They reaffirmed that the Tinubu administration remains steadfast in its commitment to the welfare of lecturers and the stability of the university system, adding that current education sector reforms are anchored on fairness, accountability, and institutional strengthening.
While emphasizing respect for university autonomy, the Ministers clarified that certain aspects of ASUU’s demands—particularly those concerning internal governance, appointments, and promotions—fall under the statutory responsibility of university governing councils. They urged the union to allow these processes to be handled in line with existing regulations.
The statement also reminded the union that the “No Work, No Pay” policy remains an active provision under Nigerian labour law and would be enforced should ASUU proceed with the strike.
“While government remains committed to peaceful dialogue, it will equally enforce existing laws to protect the integrity of our education system and ensure accountability,” the Ministers warned.
Reaffirming the administration’s openness to continued dialogue, the Ministers assured Nigerians that the Federal Government remains committed to revitalising universities, improving staff welfare, and ensuring uninterrupted academic calendars.
> “The government has shown sincerity and commitment through engagements and policy actions. We are confident that, with continued dialogue, every legitimate concern can be addressed and resolved without shutting down our campuses. Our students must remain in school,” the statement concluded.
The release was signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education.