Hussaini Ibrahim 
KANO, Nigeria – The Federal Government has officially directed vice-chancellors of federal universities across the country to enforce the ‘No Work, No Pay’ policy against members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) currently on a nationwide strike.
The directive, contained in a circular dated October 13, 2025, and signed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, marks a firm shift from previous warnings to full implementation of the labour rule.
According to the circular, which was also copied to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Pro-Chancellors of all federal universities, the Budget Office, Accountant-General of the Federation, and the National Universities Commission (NUC), the government expressed displeasure at the lecturers’ continued strike despite repeated appeals for dialogue.
“In line with the provisions of the Labour Laws of the Federation, the Federal Government reiterates its position on the enforcement of the ‘No Work, No Pay’ policy in respect of any employee who fails to discharge his or her official duties during the period of strike action,” the circular stated.
However, the minister clarified that members of the Congress of University Academics (CONUA) and the National Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA) — both not participating in the strike — are exempted from the directive and will continue to receive their full pay.
The NUC has been mandated to monitor compliance and submit a consolidated report to the Ministry of Education within seven days.
“Please treat this matter with utmost urgency and a deep sense of responsibility in the national interest,” the circular read.
ASUU had on Sunday declared a total and comprehensive warning strike, effective Monday, October 13, over issues including the renegotiation of the 2009 FGN–ASUU agreement, release of withheld salaries, improved university funding, and alleged victimisation of members.
About the Author
Chukwu Obinna 
Koko Maxwella 
Otamere Gladness