‎ASUU Issues 14-Day Ultimatum To Federal Government, Threatens Strike Action Amidst Unmet Demands

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has announced its intent to initiate a strike action within the next two weeks unless the Federal Government of Nigeria addresses its ongoing grievances. This decision was made during the Union’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Abuja on Sunday.

‎The Union has issued a formal 14-day ultimatum, calling on the government to fulfill its obligations. Prof. Chris Piwuna, National President of ASUU, criticized the government’s failure to meet the Union’s expectations, reinforcing the seriousness of the situation in a memo released after the meeting.

‎“During the NEC meeting at the University of Abuja on September 28, 2025, ASUU condemned the government’s neglect of the university system and its persistent disregard for our demands,” the memo stated. “If the Federal Government fails to respond within the 14-day timeframe, we will first implement a two-week warning strike, followed by a possible total and indefinite strike.”

‎Recent reports from SaharaReporters indicated that the Nigerian government had promised to resolve outstanding issues with ASUU within a three-week period, which is set to expire this week. Sources within the Union revealed that the lecturers are currently refraining from strike action, anticipating the promised resolution.

‎In a separate statement, the Benin Zone of ASUU had previously warned of potential disruptions in the nation’s universities, holding the Nigerian government accountable for any resulting crises. Prof. Monday Igbafen, Zonal Coordinator for the Benin Zone, highlighted the marginalization of Nigerian scholars despite their vital role in national development during a press conference at Dennis Osadebay University in Asaba, Delta State.

‎Igbafen addressed the issue of unmet salary obligations, stating that the government’s failure to pay promotion arrears, release withheld salaries, and provide adequate educational funding has exacerbated frustrations among lecturers. ASUU’s latest stance underscores a critical moment for higher education in Nigeria, as universities brace for significant disruptions if unresolved issues persist.