The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has called on the Federal Government to prioritize university education to enhance research and academic excellence in Nigeria’s higher institutions. This appeal was made by the ASUU branch at the Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ikwo (AEFUNAI) during a press conference held on Wednesday 26th of June 2024, at the university campus in Ebonyi’s Ikwo local government area.
Previously, ASUU members organized a peaceful march that began at the university campus and concluded at its entrance gate, aiming to highlight their demands for improved welfare and funding for university education in Nigeria. The address, signed by Dr. Louis Omenyi and Dr. Joseph Chukwu, the branch chairman and secretary respectively, underscored concerns about inadequate infrastructure, insufficient lecturer welfare, and other systemic challenges affecting the education sector.
ASUU expressed concern over the decline of public universities, emphasizing the urgent need to prevent brain drain and frequent strikes in the education sector. The union criticized what it described as illegal actions, underfunding, and infringements on university autonomy and academic freedom by the government. Additionally, ASUU condemned the Federal Government for not honouring agreements made with the national body.
The union observed that these issues have resulted in a notable departure of skilled individuals, a phenomenon known as the ‘Japa’ syndrome. Despite these challenges, ASUU members pledged to persist in their efforts to safeguard the future of the university system. They stressed its crucial role in fostering intellectualism, research, innovation, and development. ASUU underscored their historical duty to preserve the educational system, which they consider a national treasure.
ASUU restated their commitment to peace in the workplace and stressed the importance of quality education for all Nigerians. They vowed to continue fulfilling this duty. The union criticized the government for ignoring the difficulties faced by university lecturers and not honoring agreed terms, which has led to deteriorating infrastructure. ASUU called on authorities to act promptly to prevent worsening crises that could lower university education standards further.
The union also urged Nigerians to support ASUU in saving the university system from collapse. They warned that preparations for another round of strikes have begun, citing the failure to implement the 2009 agreement that was supposed to be reviewed every three years but has remained unaddressed for 15 years. As a result, public university lecturers continue to work under poor conditions.
ASUU demanded that the government set up a committee to review the agreement reached by its leadership and the Prof. Nimi Brigs-led government committee, considering current economic realities. The union condemned the government’s continued use of the Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System (IPPIS) payment platform, arguing that it undermines the authority of university councils. They also rejected the withholding of three and a half months’ salaries, non-payment of Earned Academic Allowance (EAA), and promotion arrears, among other grievances.
