Koko Maxwella 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustained dialogue with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to achieve a lasting resolution of all outstanding issues affecting Nigeria’s tertiary education system.
In a joint statement issued on Sunday by the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmed, the government emphasised its readiness for constructive engagement, saying the administration had demonstrated “sincerity, patience, and goodwill” in addressing ASUU’s demands.
“Virtually all issues raised by the union have been substantially addressed,” the ministers stated, highlighting improved teaching allowances and better service conditions for lecturers.
They explained that the remaining matters now fall under the jurisdiction of newly reconstituted governing councils of public universities.
The statement, however, expressed concern that ASUU had opted for industrial action despite government efforts, describing the move as “unfair to students and the public.”
Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the ministers reiterated that the government remains committed to staff welfare and academic stability. They cautioned that while dialogue remains open, the “no work, no pay” policy would be enforced if the strike disrupts academic activities.
“The government will continue to demonstrate goodwill but must uphold fairness and accountability,” the statement added.
The ministers appealed to ASUU to return to the negotiation table in the collective interest of students and the nation’s education system.
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Oluwatobi Adu 
Hussaini Ibrahim 
Mirian Gom 