Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa stated that the government has “met every single request” presented by ASUU and expressed disappointment over the union’s decision to withdraw services across public universities beginning midnight, October 13.
“There is no justification for this strike,” Alausa said. “We’ve literally addressed every single issue that ASUU is requesting. From earned academic allowances to infrastructure funding, the government has responded in full.”
ASUU National President Prof. Chris Piwuna announced the strike during a press briefing at the University of Abuja on Sunday, citing unresolved issues and the expiration of a 14-day notice issued on September 28. He described the action as “total and comprehensive,” with all ASUU branches directed to halt academic activities nationwide.
In response, Alausa outlined key interventions by the Tinubu administration, including a 683 Billion Naira allocation in the 2025 federal budget for tertiary institution infrastructure, covering hostels, lecture halls, laboratories, and workshops. He also cited disbursements for medical schools, academic staff training, and student support through the National Education Revitalization Fund (NERF).
The minister accused ASUU leadership of delaying the release of needs-assessment funds by insisting that the first tranche be paid exclusively to the union, rather than shared with polytechnics and colleges of education. “It is ASUU that is holding those disbursements,” he said, urging the union to allow funds to reach institutions directly.
On promotion arrears, third-party deductions, and other outstanding items, Alausa stated that most issues have been resolved or delegated to individual universities. He reiterated that the government will not fully pay the three-and-a-half months withheld during ASUU’s previous prolonged strike, citing prior agreements that covered partial payments.
Alausa appealed directly to students and parents, assuring them that the government is committed to keeping universities open. “Under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, we are doing everything humanly possible to keep our children in school,” he said. “This strike should not have gone on at all.”
Despite the government’s position, ASUU maintains that its grievances remain unresolved, and has rejected the counter-proposal offered during recent negotiations. The union’s action has reignited national debate over the sustainability of Nigeria’s higher education funding and the role of industrial action in academic advocacy.
