The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) Abuja Zone has urged Nigerians to persuade the Federal Government to resolve outstanding issues with the union to prevent another industrial action. Speaking at a news conference in Abuja, Prof. Al-Amin Abdullahi, Zonal Coordinator of ASUU Abuja Zone, represented by Dr. Sylvanus Ugoh, Chairman of the University of Abuja chapter, emphasized the need for the government to address the issues.

The union is seeking the renegotiation and full execution of the 2009 ASUU Agreement, which covers academic autonomy, funding, staff welfare, and revitalization of public universities. Other unresolved issues include the release of withheld salaries, payment of unpaid arrears, and settlement of third-party deductions. Despite the government’s proposal, the union has expressed dissatisfaction with the offers, citing inadequacy and a lack of commitment to implementation.

The ASUU had suspended its two-week warning strike on October 22, giving the government a one-month deadline to complete negotiations and demonstrate a sincere commitment to implementing the proposals. However, with almost four weeks elapsed, the government has not utilized the goodwill period effectively, and the administration has not shown the necessary urgency to address the persistent issues plaguing public universities.

The effects of unpaid salary awards, withheld salaries, unremitted deductions, and underfunding have been devastating, resulting in prolonged calendars, financial burdens, and disrupted learning journeys for students. The national project of building competent future leaders, innovators, and professionals is being severely undermined. The union has recognized some government actions, such as the release of some third-party deductions and partial payment of promotion arrears, but views these as attempts to foster confidence rather than a commitment to resolve the main contentions.

The ASUU Abuja Zone comprises institutions such as the University of Abuja, Federal University of Technology, Minna, and Nasarawa State University, Keffi, among others. The union has emphasized that the best way to revitalize public universities is through sincere negotiation rather than propaganda. With the government’s inaction, the union may be forced to use every lawful tool at its disposal to defend public education and safeguard its members’ interests. The situation remains critical, and the union’s next steps will be closely watched as the deadline for resolution approaches.