The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has warned that it may launch what it calls the “mother of all strikes” if the Federal Government fails to implement agreements reached as far back as 2009.
Speaking at a press briefing in Calabar on Tuesday, the University of Calabar (Unical) chapter chairman, Dr. Peter Ubi, accused the government of neglecting commitments aimed at improving university standards.
“The government made promises on these issues, and regrettably, we are here today to inform the Nigerian public that these undisputed issues have not been resolved for several years now,” Ubi said. “ASUU has tried several ways of resolving the conflict, but the government has constantly pushed our union to embark on a strike.”
Key demands include the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement, proper funding and revitalisation of universities, payment of outstanding 25–35% wage awards, three months’ salary arrears, over four years of promotion arrears, and remittance of third-party deductions.
Ubi said the strike would begin once the national body gives the directive after its meeting on August 28.
The union also urged government to maintain its freeze on establishing new universities, including private ones, warning that unchecked expansion undermines quality.
“We have 72 federal universities and 159 private ones, giving each state an average of nine. We appeal that the moratorium be extended to private institutions,” Ubi added.
Last week, the Federal Executive Council suspended the creation of new federal universities, citing overstretched resources and declining quality. However, it also approved nine new institutions following a presentation by Education Minister, Dr. Tunji Alausa.