Table of Contents
- ASUU's Objective Achieved
- Renewed Engagement with Government
- Addressing Major Demands
- Hope for Concluding Discussions
- Influence of Appeals on Strike Suspension
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has announced that its goal for initiating the recently suspended warning strike has been partially realized.
ASUU President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, made this statement on Wednesday while responding to questions during a news program on Arise Television.
Piwuna clarified that the union's primary aim of attracting the Federal Government's attention to unresolved matters has been achieved, as the government’s negotiation team has resumed discussions.
“Our union believes that we have partially accomplished our objective. Whenever we go on a warning strike, our intention is to highlight the issues between us and our employer.
“Through the ultimatum and the strike, we have successfully prompted the federal government’s negotiating team to return to the table to discuss significant issues in our agreement,” he remarked.
According to him, both parties have now exchanged their positions on critical issues, setting the stage for further negotiations.
Piwuna characterized the renewed engagement as a significant milestone, emphasizing that previous committees, including those led by Baba Lakin and Prof. Nimi Briggs, had not achieved such progress since 2017.
He further noted that one of the union's key demands, the payment of third-party deductions, is currently being addressed, as several branches have confirmed receipt of check-off dues, with additional payments anticipated.
“The Chairman of the Federal Government’s team, Alhaji Yayale Ahmed, has also assured us that he will follow up on promotion arrears, the 25–35% salary increase, and pension deductions,” Piwuna stated.
The ASUU president expressed optimism that discussions regarding the long-standing 2009 agreement would soon reach a conclusion. He also dismissed concerns about the “no work, no pay” policy, stating that the union would not be intimidated by salary threats.
Piwuna mentioned that the decision to suspend the strike was influenced by appeals from the Federal Government’s negotiation team, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and considerations for students and parents.
“We want to return to our classrooms. We want our students to learn, and we assure them that they will always be our priority now that we are back to work,” he affirmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main objective of ASUU's warning strike?
The main objective of ASUU's warning strike was to draw the Federal Government's attention to unresolved issues, which they have partially achieved as negotiations have resumed.
What are some of the key issues being discussed?
Key issues being discussed include promotion arrears, a proposed salary increase of 25–35%, and pension deductions.
How has the union responded to the "no work, no pay" policy?
The union has dismissed concerns regarding the "no work, no pay" policy, stating they are not deterred by potential salary threats.
