ASUU warns Nigerian Govt ahead of impending full strike.

ASUU warns Nigerian Govt ahead of impending full strike.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has once again issued a warning to the Nigerian government regarding the possibility of a total strike. This threat comes as a result of the government’s failure to honor agreements made with the union, as well as the ongoing issues with the Integrated Personnel Payment Information System (IPPIS).

NewsReport gathered that during a press conference held in Makurdi, Benue State, the Chairman of ASUU-Nsukka Zone, Comrade Raphael Amokaha, highlighted the union’s concerns in a speech titled “Averting a Crisis.” He told the Federal Executive Council (FEC) that he was frustrated by certain people who are using IPPIS and are unwilling to move to the University Transparency Accountability Solutions (UTAS) platform. Instead, they have introduced the Government Integrated Financial Management System (GIFMIS) to maintain their financial gains.

The union also raised issues regarding the non-payment of salaries, earned academic allowances, and other entitlements to its members. Despite the reconstitution of Governing Councils in universities by the government, ASUU criticized the illegal dissolution of some councils before their terms were completed.

ASUU emphasized the government’s failure to uphold agreements made through collective bargaining, specifically referencing the 2009 Agreement that has been neglected. The union expressed hope that the government, under President Tinubu, would prioritize resolving these issues and preventing a strike in line with his promise to eliminate university strikes.

Furthermore, ASUU called for increased funding for both state and federal universities, urging governments to allocate at least 26 percent of their annual budget to education as recommended by UNESCO.

In conclusion, ASUU’s warning signals a potential crisis in Nigeria’s higher education sector if the government fails to address the union’s grievances and fulfill its obligations. It is essential for both parties to engage in constructive dialogue and find a mutually beneficial solution to prevent a disruption in the education system. The future of Nigerian universities and the academic success of students depend on a timely resolution to these pressing issues.