The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has threatened to resume strike action, accusing the Federal Government of failing to honor the December 2025 agreement that was meant to stabilize Nigeria’s university system.
ASUU said the government has only partially implemented the deal, which promised a 40 percent salary increase, improved pension benefits, and revamped Earned Academic Allowances. Five months later, lecturers say they are still owed three-and-a-half months’ salaries, promotion arrears, shortfalls from the IPPIS platform, unremitted third-party deductions, and arrears of the 25–35 percent wage award.
The union also criticized the government for refusing to inaugurate the Implementation Monitoring Committee, which was designed to prevent bureaucratic sabotage. ASUU President Prof. Christopher Piwuna warned that the government’s “disinterestedness in the welfare of Nigerian academics” is fueling frustration that could erupt into another nationwide strike.
Students and parents fear the threat could lead to another prolonged shutdown of universities, just months after the 2025 agreement was signed to restore stability. Repeated strikes have already disrupted academic calendars, delayed graduations, and undermined professional opportunities. Analysts say the timing of the dispute, ahead of the 2027 elections, could become a political liability for the government.
Lecturers report morale is low, with some universities “picking and choosing” which allowances to pay. On social media, hashtags such as #EndASUUStrikes have trended as students demand uninterrupted education. Civil society groups have urged the government to honor its commitments to avoid another cycle of strikes that weaken Nigeria’s tertiary education system.
ASUU has directed an emergency National Executive Council meeting in the coming weeks to review the situation and decide whether to embark on strike action. The union insists it remains open to dialogue but warns that patience is running out.
