The Federal Government has warned that it may enforce the no-work, no-pay policy as the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) begins a nationwide warning strike on Monday, October 13.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Education spokesperson, the government accused ASUU of failing to cooperate despite ongoing efforts to prevent the industrial action. The statement stressed that under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the government has prioritised staff welfare and sought stability in the university system.
While reaffirming its commitment to dialogue, the government maintained that existing labour laws will guide its response should academic activities be disrupted. “The no work, no pay policy remains an extant labour law, and government will not abdicate its responsibility to ensure fairness and accountability in the use of public resources,” the statement read.
ASUU’s strike is driven by long-standing grievances, including the conclusion of the renegotiated 2009 FGN-ASUU agreement, release of withheld three and a half months’ salaries, improved funding and revitalisation of public universities, and an end to alleged victimisation of lecturers at LASU, Prince Abubakar Audu University, and FUTO.
The union is also demanding payment of outstanding 25–35% salary arrears, promotion arrears spanning over four years, and the release of withheld third-party deductions such as cooperative funds and union dues.
The government assured students, parents, and the public of its commitment to maintaining stability in tertiary education and urged university unions to pursue partnership and dialogue over confrontation. It reiterated that ongoing education reforms aim to strengthen university autonomy, enhance research conditions, and promote an environment of productivity and mutual respect.
ASUU’s warning strike signals renewed tensions in the higher education sector, raising concerns over potential disruptions to the academic calendar if issues remain unresolved.
