By Milcah Tanimu
In a significant development, the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have initiated a key meeting in Abuja, aimed at averting a potential nationwide strike across public universities in Nigeria. The discussions are taking place at the Conference Hall of the Federal Ministry of Education.
The meeting comes in response to ASUU’s recent threat to commence industrial action, citing the government’s failure to address several critical issues. These concerns reportedly include funding deficiencies, staff welfare, and the implementation of previous agreements.
ASUU, represented by its President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, has voiced frustration over the unmet commitments, which have been central to the union’s demands. Despite an earlier attempt to schedule a meeting last Monday, it was postponed without any provided reasons.
Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, had previously indicated the government’s willingness to engage with ASUU, signaling an attempt to resolve the ongoing disputes.
The meeting includes prominent figures from the Federal Ministry of Education and former ASUU presidents, led by the immediate past president, Prof. Biodun Ogunyemi.
The outcome of these negotiations is pivotal, as it will determine whether public universities in Nigeria will face further disruptions. Both the government and ASUU are under considerable pressure to reach an agreement that will allow academic activities to proceed uninterrupted.
