The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has temporarily suspended its proposed nationwide strike following new commitments from the federal government to address its long-standing demands.
ASUU President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, disclosed this in an exclusive interview with Nigerian Tribune over the weekend, explaining that while the government has yet to take concrete action, it has provided fresh assurances with a clear timeline.
“Our demands remain unchanged,” Osodeke stated. “These include the release of revitalization funds, payment of our earned academic allowances and withheld three-and-a-half months’ salaries, and the renegotiation of our previous agreement.”
He revealed that during their last meeting with government officials, ASUU was assured that key concerns—particularly revitalization funds, academic allowances, and withheld salaries—would be addressed in the 2025 national budget, with funds to be released immediately after its passage.
“With the budget now passed and signed for implementation, there is no longer any excuse for inaction. We are giving the government until the end of March to fulfill its commitments before deciding our next steps,” Osodeke warned.
While ASUU remains cautious due to past unfulfilled promises, he acknowledged that the government has shown some effort, including budgetary provisions and the involvement of the Accountant-General of the Federation in resolving the issues.
“For now, we are waiting. But if by the end of this month there is no meaningful progress, we will take appropriate action,” he emphasized.
