FG Assures Students: No University Shutdown Despite ASUU Protests

 

The Federal Government has assured Nigerian students that despite ongoing ASUU protests, universities will remain open, with efforts underway to resolve issues through sustainable agreements, wage settlements, and legally binding reforms.

The Federal Government reassured Nigerian students that the ongoing protests by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) will not lead to another round of university closures.

Minister of State for Education, Tunji Alausa, gave the assurance following a high-level meeting with top government officials in Abuja to address ASUU’s grievances.

“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,” Alausa stated.

He revealed that President Tinubu has instructed the Ministry of Education to collaborate with relevant agencies in developing a sustainable and legally sound framework to prevent recurring academic disruptions in public universities.

Alausa emphasized that the administration would not commit to “unsustainable agreements,” but would instead focus on practical and implementable solutions. He assured Nigerians that the ongoing process is being handled with diligence, accountability, and integrity.

Among the progress made, the minister highlighted the advancement in incorporating earned academic allowances into the salary structure. Additionally, he confirmed that the outstanding 35% wage arrears owed to lecturers would be paid once similar payments to other public sector workers begin.

To facilitate ongoing dialogue, a technical committee, led by Permanent Secretary Abel Enitan, has been established to draft a revised agreement. This draft will be submitted to the Yayale Ahmed-led negotiation team, with input from the Ministry of Justice from the beginning to ensure all agreements are legally enforceable.

The recent meeting included representatives from the Ministries of Education, Labour, and Justice, along with officials from the Budget Office, the National Universities Commission (NUC), TETFund, and the Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission.

The Ministry urged students and the public to remain calm and supportive as efforts continue toward a long-term resolution with ASUU.