FG Threatens ASUU With ‘No Work, No Pay’ Policy

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has announced that the Federal Government (FG) will implement a ‘no work, no pay’ policy concerning the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

This information was shared in a statement released to journalists in Abuja on Sunday by the ministry’s director of press and public relations, Folasade Boriowo.

The alert came as university lecturers announced a two-week warning strike starting at midnight on Monday, October 13, due to unmet demands.

According to the union, this decision was made after the federal government failed to fulfil outstanding demands by the end of a 14-day ultimatum.

Alausa cautioned the union about the impending ‘no work, no pay’ policy, asserting that the federal government remains willing to engage in discussions.

The minister expressed that the government is committed to constructive dialogue with the union to resolve the lingering issues impacting the university system.

He noted that the federal government has shown sincerity, patience, and goodwill during its discussions with the union, emphasising that nearly all concerns raised by ASUU have been addressed.

These addressed concerns include the introduction of a significant percentage in teaching allowances and considerable enhancements in the conditions of service for academic staff.

“The remaining concerns primarily fall under the jurisdiction of the governing councils of individual universities, which have recently been reconstituted to manage such internal matters.

“While the government is making every effort to settle all outstanding issues and ensure students continue their education, ASUU does not exhibit the same level of urgency,” he stated.

Alausa mentioned that the government has adhered to the agreed deadline for presenting its stance to the union; however, instead of continuing the dialogue with the ministry, ASUU opted to initiate strike action.

He pointed out that this decision does not demonstrate a spirit of collaboration or fairness towards students and the public, particularly in light of the government’s clear commitment and tangible actions already taken.

Moreover, the minister reiterated that the government has consistently prioritised the welfare of university staff and the stability of the academic calendar under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He stated that dialogue is the most effective and lasting means of resolving conflicts, and the government is open to discussions at any level to avert unnecessary disruptions in the education sector.

However, he stressed that the “no work, no pay” policy is an existing labour law in the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the government will adhere to this law should academic activities be interrupted at the nation’s universities.

He affirmed that while the government continues to show goodwill and flexibility, it will not neglect its duty to ensure fairness and accountability in the utilisation of public resources.

He assured Nigerian students, parents, and the general public that the federal government is genuinely committed to maintaining industrial peace in the higher education system.

The minister urged all academic unions to prioritise partnership and dialogue instead of confrontation for the collective benefit of the nation’s higher education system.

He emphasised that the government’s education reform plan aims to improve teaching and research environments, foster institutional autonomy through enhanced university governance, and ensure that the academic community flourishes in a setting of mutual respect, productivity, and innovation.

The minister reiterated the federal government’s dedication to collaborating with all parties involved to protect the academic calendar and avoid further interruptions in the educational process.

He encouraged ASUU to rethink its stance and return to negotiations in the best interests of students and the future of Nigeria’s educational system.