FGN Reiterates Commitment to Resolving ASUU Issues, Warns on Consequences of Disrupting the Academic Calendar

Abuja, October 13, 2025

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), emphasizing its dedication to finding a sustainable resolution to lingering issues in the university system. This was made known in a joint statement by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmed.

According to a statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, the Ministers highlighted that despite the government meeting the majority of ASUU’s demands, the union has remained unyielding in its stance. They warned that while the government remains open to dialogue, the “no work, no pay” policy—an extant labour law—will be strictly enforced should ASUU embark on any strike action that disrupts the academic calendar.
The Ministers stressed that the government has demonstrated transparency, patience, and goodwill in its dealings with ASUU. They outlined several achievements already recorded, including the approval of a significant increase in teaching allowances and the improvement of conditions of service for academic staff. They noted that the few unresolved issues are now within the purview of the newly reconstituted university governing councils, which are empowered to address them internally.

Despite these efforts, the Ministers expressed concern over ASUU’s decision to pursue industrial action rather than continue with negotiations. They pointed out that the government had honored agreed deadlines and expected ASUU to return to the discussion table. Instead, the union’s current posture, they said, undermines efforts to maintain stability in the education sector and does a disservice to students and the wider public.
“While the government continues to demonstrate flexibility and a willingness to resolve all issues, it will not abdicate its responsibility to uphold fairness and accountability in the use of public resources,” the statement read.

Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Ministers said that the administration has prioritized staff welfare and the stability of academic activities. They reiterated that dialogue remains the most viable and sustainable approach to resolving industrial disputes in the education sector.
Reassuring students, parents, and stakeholders, the Federal Government emphasized its commitment to maintaining industrial harmony and ensuring that academic activities continue uninterrupted. The Ministers appealed to all academic unions to embrace dialogue and partnership, emphasizing that the future of Nigeria’s education system hinges on collaboration and mutual respect.

They concluded by restating the government’s dedication to reforming the education sector, enhancing teaching and research conditions, promoting institutional autonomy, and fostering a productive academic environment.

“We urge ASUU to reconsider its current stance and return to the path of constructive dialogue in the interest of our students and the future of Nigeria’s education,” the statement said.