October 13, (THEWILL) — The Federal Government has warned the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) that it will enforce the “No Work, No Pay” policy if the union proceeds with its planned strike, even as it reaffirmed its commitment to resolving all outstanding issues through dialogue.
ASUU had on Sunday declared a two-week warning strike, saying the period would serve as a window for the government to meet its demands, including the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement, provision of adequate revitalisation funds for universities, settlement of outstanding salary arrears, and creation of sustainable funding mechanisms.
Reacting to the development, the Ministers of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa and Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, in a joint statement on Sunday, appealed to ASUU to suspend its industrial action and embrace constructive engagement in the interest of students and national stability.
The statement, signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, said the government had presented a comprehensive offer to the union and was awaiting ASUU’s formal response.
According to the statement, the offer addresses key concerns such as improved working conditions, institutional governance, and staff welfare. It also disclosed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has approved an enhanced Teaching Allowance to recognise the value of academic work and motivate lecturers across public universities.
“All matters relating to the review of conditions of service have been duly addressed, except those within the jurisdiction of university governing councils, which are already being handled.
“The Federal Government remains open and committed to continued engagement with ASUU once their formal response to the offer is received,” it stated.
While expressing disappointment that ASUU appeared determined to proceed with the strike despite ongoing talks, the statement noted that the Tinubu administration had demonstrated sincerity through prompt policy actions and financial interventions in the education sector.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to lecturers’ welfare and the stability of the university system, stressing that ongoing reforms are anchored on fairness, accountability, and institutional strengthening.
Reiterating its respect for university autonomy, the government clarified that some of ASUU’s demands, particularly those relating to internal governance, appointments, and promotions, fall under the purview of university governing councils and should be handled accordingly in line with existing regulations.
It also reminded the union that the “No Work, No Pay” provision remains a subsisting labour law and will be applied if ASUU proceeds with the strike.
“While the 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 government assured Nigerians that it remains open to dialogue with ASUU and other stakeholders to sustain progress in revitalising universities, improving staff welfare, and maintaining uninterrupted academic calendars.
“The government has shown sincerity and commitment through engagements and policy actions. We are confident that, with continued dialogue, every legitimate concern can be resolved without shutting down our campuses.
“Our students must remain in school,” the statement added, urging ASUU to prioritise the future of students and the stability of universities.
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