FG Urges ASUU to Prioritise Students, Cites “No Work, No Pay” Rule

FG Urges ASUU to Prioritise Students, Cites “No Work, No Pay” Rule
The Ministers assured students, parents, and the public that the Federal Government remains dedicated to keeping universities open and promoting uninterrupted learning
Dr Alausa and Professor Ahmad emphasized that government has demonstrated sincerity through prompt policy actions

The Federal Government has appealed to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to reconsider its plan to embark on a nationwide strike, stressing that dialogue remains the most effective and sustainable way to resolve all outstanding issues in the university system.

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Eko Hot Blog reports that in a joint statement, the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, said the government has made a comprehensive offer to the union and is still awaiting ASUU’s official response.

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According to the Ministers, the offer addresses major areas of concern raised by the union, including staff welfare, working conditions, and institutional governance.

They noted that under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a new teaching allowance has been approved to reflect the value of academic work and motivate lecturers across public universities.

They explained that all matters related to the review of service conditions have been addressed, except those under the jurisdiction of university governing councils, which are actively handling such internal issues.

“The Federal Government remains open to continued engagement with ASUU once their formal response to the offer is received,” the statement read.

Dr Alausa and Professor Ahmad emphasized that government has demonstrated sincerity through prompt policy actions and financial support for the education sector.

FG Urges ASUU to Prioritise Students, Cites “No Work, No Pay” Rule

However, they expressed concern that ASUU has not reciprocated this goodwill, choosing instead to proceed with the planned strike despite the pending offer and ongoing discussions.

The Ministers reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare of lecturers and the stability of the university system. They explained that current reforms in the education sector are based on fairness, accountability, and institutional strengthening to achieve sustainable academic excellence.

While reiterating government’s respect for university autonomy, the Ministers clarified that some of ASUU’s demands particularly those relating to internal governance, promotions, and appointments fall within the statutory duties of the university governing councils.

FG Urges ASUU to Prioritise Students, Cites “No Work, No Pay” Rule

They urged the union to allow such matters to be resolved at the institutional level in line with established procedures.

They further reminded ASUU that the “No Work, No Pay” principle remains an active provision of Nigeria’s labour laws and will be applied if the union proceeds with strike action.

“While the government remains committed to peaceful dialogue, it will also enforce existing laws to safeguard the integrity of the education system and ensure accountability,” they said.

The Ministers assured students, parents, and the public that the Federal Government remains dedicated to keeping universities open and promoting uninterrupted learning.

They noted that consistent government interventions demonstrate a clear commitment to revitalising institutions, improving staff welfare, and ensuring a stable academic calendar.

“The future of our children and the stability of our universities must take priority over disputes. The government is ready to work with ASUU to consolidate the gains already achieved in welfare, infrastructure, and institutional reform,” the statement concluded.