The Federal Government on Sunday night warned that it may invoke the no-work-no-pay policy against the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) following the union’s declaration of a two-week warning strike.
In a statement issued by Folasade Boriowo, spokesperson for the Federal Ministry of Education, the government expressed disappointment over ASUU’s decision to embark on industrial action despite ongoing engagements aimed at resolving pending issues.
The ministry stated that the government had consistently prioritised the welfare of university staff and the stability of the academic calendar under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Dialogue remains the most effective and sustainable path to resolving disagreements,” the statement read. “Government remains open to engagement at all levels to prevent unnecessary disruptions in the education sector.”
It, however, warned that the no-work-no-pay policy remains an enforceable labour law in Nigeria, adding that the government would not hesitate to apply it if the strike leads to the suspension of academic activities.
While assuring students, parents, and the public of its commitment to maintaining industrial harmony in tertiary institutions, the ministry urged all academic unions to embrace dialogue rather than confrontation.
The government reiterated that its ongoing education reforms are geared towards improving teaching and research conditions, strengthening university governance, and fostering an environment of productivity and innovation.
ASUU had on Sunday declared a total and comprehensive two-week warning strike beginning Monday, October 13.
The union’s demands include the conclusion of the renegotiated 2009 FGN-ASUU agreement, payment of withheld three-and-a-half months’ salaries, sustainable and adequate funding of public universities, and the cessation of alleged victimisation of lecturers at LASU, Prince Abubakar Audu University, and FUTO.
ASUU is also demanding payment of outstanding 25–35 per cent salary arrears, promotion arrears of over four years, and the release of withheld third-party deductions such as cooperative and union dues.