A crucial meeting between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is underway in Abuja, aimed at resolving the lingering issues that have sparked a threatened nationwide strike by university lecturers.
The union’s threat follows the Federal Government’s alleged failure to meet its demands, including improvements in welfare, university funding, and halting the proliferation of universities. ASUU’s national executive council meeting on August 19, 2024, resolved to down tools if their demands were not met.
Education Minister Tahir Mamman acknowledged that most of the contentious issues date back to 1981 but assured that letters of invitation had been sent to ASUU leadership and other stakeholders, and their grievances were being addressed.
Mamman noted that some issues, such as the exit from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), had been resolved by the President, but bureaucracy had delayed implementation. He expressed optimism that some issues would be discussed and resolved during the meeting.
The minister urged ASUU to be considerate and open-minded in their approach, ensuring that all parties’ interests are represented. He emphasized the President’s commitment to providing a permanent solution to the issues, as promised during his campaign.
