The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has embarked on yet another nationwide strike its 18th in 26 years over what it describes as the Federal Government’s persistent neglect of the education sector and failure to fulfill previous agreements.
According to the union, the decision follows years of unkept promises regarding improved funding for universities, better working conditions, and payment of earned academic allowances. ASUU said the strike became inevitable after several rounds of dialogue with government representatives ended without tangible results.
University campuses across the country were thrown into uncertainty on Monday as lecturers halted academic activities, leaving students stranded midway through their semester. Many expressed frustration over the recurring disruptions to their academic calendar.
ASUU leadership stressed that the strike was not intended to punish students but to compel the government to prioritize education as a national investment rather than a burden. They emphasized that meaningful reforms and consistent implementation of agreements are the only way to end the cycle of industrial actions.
Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Education has appealed for calm, assuring that discussions are ongoing to resolve the impasse. However, the union maintains that until concrete steps are taken, the strike will continue indefinitely.
With this latest development, Nigeria’s public university system once again faces uncertainty, reigniting debates over the future of tertiary education in the country.
Shopeju Olateju
NaijaTravels New