The federal government of Nigeria and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have signed a new agreement after weeks of negotiations and discussions between the two parties on the 2009 agreement.
Naijaonpoint reports that the new agreement was signed on Wednesday at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Conference Hall in Maitama, Abuja.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by top government officials and other dignitaries, including the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, as well as ASUU President, Prof. Chris Piwuna.
The new agreement is aimed at improving the quality of the university education system and ensuring stability in the sector.
Speaking at the unveiling of the agreement, Prof. Piwuna said ASUU is optimistic that the government would abide by the signed agreements and won’t renege on the new deal.
He expressed hope that the union would not need to issue a strike threat before the Federal Government implements the agreement reached by both parties.
“We are optimistic that the government will implement this agreement in totality, but pessimism still exists because of our history.
“It is our belief that Dr. Tunji Alausa will be different, and that our union will not need to issue a strike threat before any part of this agreement is implemented. As you always say, you are open and accessible; ASUU is also open and accessible,” the ASUU president said.