Meet ASUU’s Demands or Risk Nationwide Strike, NLC Warns FG
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has warned the Federal Government to meet the demands of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) or risk a nationwide strike.
In a statement released on Monday, the NLC expressed deep concern over the government’s continued neglect of agreements reached with ASUU, noting that the persistent underfunding of public universities and the failure to address lecturers’ welfare were unacceptable.
The labour body emphasized that education remains a fundamental pillar for national development, and the government’s nonchalant attitude towards resolving issues in the tertiary education sector undermines the country’s future.
“The Federal Government must immediately engage ASUU in meaningful dialogue and implement previously signed agreements. Failure to do so will leave organized labour with no option but to embark on solidarity action,” the statement read in part.
The NLC also accused the government of paying lip service to the plight of Nigerian students, warning that another prolonged closure of universities would have devastating consequences for families and the economy.
ASUU had earlier accused the government of reneging on its commitments regarding the revitalization of public universities, earned academic allowances, and the adoption of the University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS) as an alternative to IPPIS.
The NLC reaffirmed its support for ASUU, saying that the union’s struggle represents a legitimate demand for quality education and improved working conditions.
As tensions rise, stakeholders have called on the Federal Government to act swiftly to avert another round of industrial action that could cripple academic activities across the country.
