The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has officially suspended its nationwide strike, following renewed engagement and commitments from the Federal Government.
The decision was reached after an emergency meeting of the union’s National Executive Council (NEC) held late Monday night. According to ASUU leadership, the suspension is to give room for further dialogue and to allow the government time to fulfill its promises.
In a statement released by ASUU President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, the union confirmed that the strike was called off after receiving assurances that key issues — including the renegotiation of the 2009 ASUU-FG Agreement, revitalization funds, and withheld salaries — would soon be addressed.
> “We have decided to suspend our industrial action temporarily in the interest of Nigerian students and the education sector at large. However, this suspension should not be mistaken for surrender. We will review the government’s commitment within the next one month,” Prof. Piwuna stated.
The strike, which had disrupted academic activities across universities nationwide, was initially declared to push for improved funding, university autonomy, and better working conditions for lecturers.
Reports indicate that the Federal Government made new commitments during the latest negotiation, promising immediate action on some of the union’s long-standing demands.
Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, alongside other key officials, reportedly appealed to the union to consider students’ welfare and allow academic activities to resume while discussions continue.
> “We acknowledge ASUU’s patience and dedication to improving higher education in Nigeria. The government remains fully committed to implementing resolutions reached during this dialogue,” a ministry official said.
With the strike now suspended, academic activities are expected to resume across federal and state universities within the week. However, ASUU warned that it would not hesitate to resume industrial action if the government fails to meet its promises within the agreed timeframe.
For many students and parents, this announcement brings relief after weeks of uncertainty — but it also raises questions about how long the peace will last in Nigeria’s troubled higher education sector.
📰 By InsightPress Nigeria
📅 October 21, 2025
