ASUU strike: Tinubu’s govt threatens ‘no work, no pay’
The Federal Government has urged the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, to suspend its planned strike, warning that it will enforce the “no work, no pay” policy if lecturers proceed with the industrial action.
The appeal was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education.
According to the statement, the Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, said the government has presented a comprehensive offer to ASUU addressing key issues raised by the union.
They said the offer covers lecturers’ welfare, working conditions, and institutional governance, adding that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has approved an enhanced teaching allowance to reflect the value of academic work and motivate university staff.
“All matters relating to the review of conditions of service have been duly addressed, except those within the jurisdiction of individual university governing councils, which are being handled at that level,” the statement said.
The ministers expressed disappointment that ASUU appears determined to embark on the strike despite the government’s “demonstrable commitment and sincerity,” citing several policy actions and financial interventions in the education sector.
They maintained that the government remains open to dialogue but will not hesitate to invoke the “no work, no pay” rule if the union proceeds with its action.
“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 statement warned.
The ministers reiterated the government’s commitment to university autonomy but clarified that issues relating to internal governance, appointments, and promotions are the statutory responsibility of university governing councils.
They assured that the Tinubu administration is focused on stabilising the university system and revitalising infrastructure to guarantee uninterrupted academic calendars.
“The future of our children and the stability of our universities must take priority over disputes,” the ministers said, urging ASUU to return to the negotiation table in the interest of students.