The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has announced the suspension of its two-week nationwide warning strike, following a marathon National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Abuja. The decision was made after the union’s leadership reviewed recent engagements with the federal government and considered interventions from various stakeholders.
Background of the Strike
The strike commenced on October 13, 2025, in response to the government’s failure to address lingering issues from the 2009 FGN/ASUU Agreement. Key concerns included the release of withheld salaries, sustainable funding for public universities, and the revitalization of university infrastructure. The strike led to the suspension of academic activities across various institutions, including the University of Ibadan, where lecture halls and offices remained locked during the initial days of the strike.
NEC’s Decision to Suspend the Strike
After deliberations, ASUU President Prof. Chris Piwuna announced that the union had decided to suspend the strike to allow for a conducive atmosphere for further engagement with the government. He emphasized that while the union’s demands had not been fully met, the suspension was a gesture of goodwill, considering the appeals from students, parents, and the Nigeria Labour Congress.
Government’s Response
In response to the suspension, the federal government has reiterated its commitment to addressing the issues raised by ASUU. Officials have stated that efforts are underway to ensure the timely release of withheld salaries and to engage in meaningful discussions regarding the 2009 agreement. The government has also emphasized the importance of maintaining industrial harmony in the education sector.
Looking Ahead
While the suspension of the strike provides temporary relief, ASUU has warned that if the government fails to resolve the outstanding issues within a one-month window, the union may have no choice but to resume strike action without further notice. The union has called on all stakeholders to continue advocating for the fulfillment of the agreements to ensure stability in the academic calendar.
