The Federal Government has warned the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) against proceeding with its proposed two-week nationwide warning strike, threatening to enforce the “no work, no pay” policy if lecturers down tools.
In a joint statement issued on Sunday, the Minister of Education, Prof. Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmed, accused ASUU of abandoning dialogue despite what they described as the administration’s “sincere and consistent efforts” to address the union’s demands.
“The Federal Government calls on ASUU to reconsider its decision to embark on an industrial action, as constructive dialogue remains the most effective and sustainable approach to resolving outstanding issues in the tertiary education sector,” the ministers said.
They disclosed that the government had already presented a comprehensive offer addressing the lecturers’ major concerns, including working conditions, institutional governance, and staff welfare, and was awaiting ASUU’s official response.
According to the statement, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has approved a “robust Teaching Allowance” to recognise the value of academic work and motivate university lecturers across the country.
“All issues relating to the review of conditions of service have been addressed, except those within the jurisdiction of individual university governing councils, which are already being handled,” the ministers added.
They stressed that the administration has shown “commitment and sincerity” through policy reforms and financial interventions aimed at stabilising the education sector, but expressed concern that ASUU appeared determined to proceed with the strike despite ongoing engagement.
Reaffirming government’s commitment to the welfare of lecturers and stability of the university system, the statement noted that Tinubu’s reforms are built on fairness, accountability, and institutional strengthening to ensure lasting academic excellence.
While restating respect for university autonomy, the ministers clarified that certain aspects of ASUU’s demands — particularly on internal governance, appointments, and promotions — are responsibilities of individual governing councils and should be addressed at that level.
They reminded the union that the “no work, no pay” principle remains a binding provision of Nigerian labour law, and the government would not hesitate to apply it should the strike go ahead.
“While government remains committed to peaceful dialogue, it will equally enforce existing laws to protect the integrity of our education system and ensure accountability,” the ministers warned.
They, however, reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s readiness to continue engaging with ASUU and other stakeholders to revitalise universities, enhance staff welfare, and ensure uninterrupted academic activities.
“The future of our children and the stability of our universities must take priority over disputes,” the statement concluded.
