Federal Government Enters Final Phase of Negotiations with ASUU to Avert Strike

The Federal Government has commenced the final phase of negotiations with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and other tertiary education unions. Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, disclosed this during a meeting of the Technical Working Group on Conditions of Service of ASUU in Abuja.

The Technical Working Group is finalizing a counteroffer to be presented to ASUU through the Allied General United Federal Government Tertiary Institutions Negotiations Committee. This development is expected to bring relief to students and lecturers alike.
About 80% of the unions’ demands are similar across tertiary institutions, while 20% reflect sector-specific concerns. The government aims to address these issues to prevent further industrial action .
The current administration has made significant progress, including the payment of ₦50 billion Earned Academic Allowance and inclusion of ₦150 billion in the 2025 budget for needs assessment .

The Minister expressed optimism that outstanding issues would soon be resolved, emphasizing President Bola Tinubu’s directive to keep Nigerian students in school and avoid disruptions to the academic calendar. He urged academic and non-academic unions to exercise patience and avoid strikes as a first resort .

The negotiations are expected to conclude soon, with the government aiming to reach a mutually beneficial agreement with ASUU. The outcome of these negotiations will likely have a significant impact on the academic calendar and the overall education sector in Nigeria .