ASUU Gives Federal Government 14 Days to Meet Demands or Face Strike
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government of Nigeria, warning that failure to address long-standing demands may force the union to begin another nationwide strike.
The decision was taken after the union’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at the University of Abuja. In a statement personally signed by the ASUU National President, Professor Chris Piwuna, the union expressed frustration over what it described as the neglect of Nigeria’s university system and the government’s refusal to honour agreements.
According to the statement, ASUU’s demands have remained consistent for years. These include the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement, provision of adequate revitalisation funds for universities, payment of outstanding salary arrears, and the establishment of a sustainable funding system for higher education in the country. The union insists these issues are critical for ensuring stability and quality in Nigerian universities.
ASUU warned that if the Federal Government fails to act within the 14-day deadline, it would begin with a two-week warning strike before escalating to a total and indefinite shutdown of universities across the country. The union stressed that such action, though painful, has become necessary due to the government’s continued inaction.
What does this ultimatum mean for students and parents? If the strike goes ahead, academic activities across public universities will be disrupted, leaving thousands of students stranded and delaying academic calendars once again. Many parents and stakeholders fear that this could worsen the challenges already faced in Nigeria’s educational system.
The Federal Government had earlier set up a committee through the Ministry of Education, chaired by Permanent Secretary Abel Enitan, to review ASUU’s proposal and find solutions to the ongoing disputes. However, as of now, the committee has not released any concrete decision or progress update to the public, raising concerns that negotiations may once again stall.
For many Nigerians, the looming strike highlights the recurring crisis in the university system, where issues of funding, infrastructure, and staff welfare remain unresolved despite repeated negotiations. Over the years, students have suffered from prolonged strikes, which not only disrupt learning but also affect career plans and the overall quality of education.
All eyes are now on the Federal Government’s response within the 14-day window. Whether decisive action will be taken to prevent another shutdown or whether universities will be plunged into yet another cycle of industrial action depends on how seriously the government addresses ASUU’s demands.
