The federal government has warned the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) that it will activate the “no work, no pay” labour policy following the union’s declaration of a nationwide strike.
The government demanded that ASUU should reconsider its position and return to dialogue in the best interest of students and the future of Nigeria’s education system
In a statement released on Sunday, Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa reminded ASUU members that the Federal Republic of Nigeria’s “no work, no pay” policy is still in effect and that the government will follow it in the event that academic activities in the country’s universities are disrupted.
The Minister said: “While government continues to demonstrate goodwill and flexibility, it will not abdicate its responsibility to uphold fairness and accountability in the use of public resources.”
He emphasised that the Federal Government has shown observable sincerity, patience, and goodwill in its dialogue with the Union, pointing out that almost all of ASUU’s concerns have been addressed. He accused ASUU members of purposefully not being interested in industrial peace and harmony in the university system.
“These include the introduction of a big percentage of teaching allowance and significant improvements in the conditions of service of academic staff.
“The few remaining matters are those that rightfully fall within the jurisdiction of the governing councils of the respective universities, which have been recently reconstituted to handle such internal issues.”
He pointed out that ASUU is not functioning with the same fervour, despite the government’s best efforts to address every problem and guarantee that students continue their education.
“The government had met the deadline for presenting its position to the union as agreed, yet instead of reverting to the Ministry in continuation of dialogue, ASUU has chosen to proceed with strike action.
“This action, the Ministers observed, does not reflect a spirit of cooperation or fairness to the students and the public, especially given the government’s demonstrable commitment and concrete steps already taken.”
He assured the public, parents, and students in Nigeria that the federal government is steadfastly dedicated to preserving industrial harmony in the higher education system.
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