Chukwu Obinna 
BAUCHI, Nigeria – Nigeria’s university lecturers, under the Academic Staff Union of Universities, issue a four-day ultimatum to the Federal Government of Nigeria to implement a new salary structure agreed in December 2025.
Speaking in Bauchi on Friday, ASUU President Christopher Piwuna warns of “strong consequences” if payments fail to begin immediately.
“We have issued a four-day ultimatum… failure to comply will attract a strong response,” he says.
The salary structure was due for implementation in January 2026, but delays have heightened tensions in a long-standing dispute marked by strikes and unmet agreements.
Piwuna criticises what he describes as a pattern of broken promises, urging authorities to rebuild trust. He also opposes plans linked to Bola Tinubu to establish foreign university partnerships, arguing Nigeria should prioritise strengthening its own institutions.
The ultimatum follows earlier industrial actions over unpaid arrears and payroll system challenges.
The dispute reflects broader labour unrest, with civil servants also threatening nationwide action over wage delays.
Analysts warn prolonged tensions could disrupt academic calendars and deepen instability in Nigeria’s education sector.
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Oluwatobi Adu 
Korede Abdullah 
