ASUU Strike: CONUA Backs FG, Distances Self from Action

The Congress of University Academics (CONUA) has separated itself from the two-week warning strike initiated by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

This information was released in a statement by CONUA’s National President, Comrade ‘Niyi Sunmonu, to the media in Lagos on Monday.

It should be noted that ASUU announced a two-week total and comprehensive warning strike on Sunday that affects all public universities in Nigeria.

The declaration was made by the National President of ASUU, Prof. Chris Piwuna.

Union members are demanding payment of withheld salaries and addressing promotion issues, among other requests.

In response, Congress of University Academics members have made clear their stance on this situation by stating that “they are not on strike.”

“To clarify, CONUA is not participating in the strike. The leadership of the Congress wants to clearly assert that there has been no declaration of industrial action by CONUA and that it is not involved in any planned strike.

“Recent false information spreading across various platforms has caused unnecessary confusion within the academic community and among students. This clarification is issued to set the facts right.

“CONUA is firmly dedicated to maintaining academic stability, excellence, and the uninterrupted operation of Nigerian universities through constructive dialogue and peaceful interaction with the government and all relevant parties.

“Our members are encouraged to continue fulfilling their academic and administrative roles diligently by attending work, engaging with students, and performing their duties as expected.

“Your commitment and professionalism are crucial for upholding standards in our higher education system,” stated the president.

He emphasized that CONUA currently sees no valid reason to declare a dispute or initiate any strike.

The union leader pointed out that when the renegotiation committee for the 2009 Agreement was formed in October 2024, CONUA was notably and intentionally excluded.

He detailed that the union formally objected to this exclusion, which eventually led to a meeting with the Minister of Education on September 11.

“At that meeting, the minister recognized CONUA’s concerns and assured that the Yayale Ahmed Renegotiation Committee would be expanded to include all academic unions across Nigeria’s federal tertiary institutions.

“We are pleased to report that the Ministry of Education has recently expanded the committee, fulfilling that commitment. Until CONUA is officially included in discussions and any issues it has presented to the Federal Government are recognized as subjects of dispute, there is no justification whatsoever for a strike by CONUA.

Further commenting, Sunmonu noted that decisions from nationwide congresses held after the September 11 meeting were communicated to members at universities, followed by congress meetings held between September 18 and September 24.

He explained that during these congresses, members unanimously reaffirmed CONUA’s principled position that no strike should occur and that negotiation, rather than disruption, is the most viable course for the Nigerian university system.

“However, CONUA respectfully urges Vice Chancellors to ensure the safety and protection of CONUA members as they carry out their legitimate responsibilities within their institutions.

“We also encourage students to stay focused on their academic goals without the fear of disruption.

“The union is committed to quality education, national progress, and peaceful relations in the university system.

“CONUA’s steadfast focus is on cultivating a sustainable, innovative, and productive academic environment that caters to the needs of students, scholars, and the nation.

“We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of all parties involved in supporting this constructive approach to enhancing higher education in Nigeria.