HiThe Federal Government on Sunday warned the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) that it may enforce the “No Work, No Pay” policy should the union proceed with its nationwide strike.
The warning was issued in a joint statement by the Minister of Education, Prof. Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmed. The ministers reiterated government’s willingness to resolve all outstanding issues with the union through constructive dialogue.
“The Federal Government has demonstrated demonstrable sincerity, patience, and goodwill in its dialogue with the Union,” the statement read.
They noted that several of ASUU’s demands, including improved teaching allowances and better conditions of service, have already been addressed. They added that other matters raised by the union fall under the purview of the reconstituted governing councils of universities.
“Despite these efforts, ASUU has opted for strike action. This action does not reflect a spirit of cooperation or fairness to the students and the public,” the ministers said.
The statement further stated that under the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, government places a high priority on sustaining academic stability in the country’s tertiary institutions.
It warned that, “The ‘No Work, No Pay’ policy remains an extant labour law of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the government will be guided by this law should academic activities be disrupted.”
The government appealed to ASUU to reconsider its decision and return to the negotiation table, affirming its commitment to continuous dialogue to avert any disruption in the academic calendar.
The Academic Staff Union of Universities had earlier declared a nationwide strike over unresolved issues with the government, including funding, welfare, and autonomy of public universities.
