CONUA Backs FG, Distances Self from ASUU Strike

The Congress of University Academics (CONUA) has clarified that it is not associated with the two-week warning strike initiated by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

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

It is worth noting that ASUU announced a comprehensive two-week warning strike on Sunday, affecting all public universities across Nigeria.

This announcement was made by the union’s National President, Prof. Chris Piwuna.

The union’s members are advocating for the payment of withheld salaries and addressing promotion arrears among other issues.

In response, CONUA members have made it clear that they are not participating in the strike.

“Clarifying the situation, CONUA wishes to assert that it has not declared any industrial action and is not involved in any planned strike.

“Recent misinformation spread through various channels has led to unnecessary confusion within the academic sector and among students. This statement is issued to clear up any misunderstandings.

“CONUA is fully committed to maintaining academic stability, promoting excellence, and ensuring the effective operation of Nigeria’s universities through constructive dialogue and peaceful engagement with the government and relevant stakeholders.

“We urge our members to diligently continue their academic and administrative responsibilities, attend work, interact with students, and fulfill their professional obligations as expected.

“Your commitment and integrity are essential for upholding standards in our higher education system,” the president reaffirmed.

He emphasized that CONUA currently has no grounds to declare a dispute or initiate a strike.

The union representative pointed out that when the renegotiation committee of the 2009 Agreement was established in October 2024, CONUA was intentionally left out.

He mentioned that the union formally expressed its grievances regarding this exclusion, which eventually led to a meeting with the Minister of Education on September 11.

“During that meeting, the minister recognized CONUA’s concerns and promised that the Yayale Ahmed Renegotiation Committee would be expanded to include representatives from all academic unions in Nigeria’s federal tertiary institutions.

“We are pleased to observe that the Ministry of Education has recently expanded the committee, honoring that commitment. Until CONUA is formally included in discussions and its issues are acknowledged as grounds for dispute by the Federal Government, there is no justification for a strike by CONUA.

Additionally, Sunmonu highlighted that resolutions from nationwide congresses held after the September 11 meeting were communicated to members at various universities, and subsequent congresses were convened between September 18 and September 24.

He stated that during these congresses, members unanimously reaffirmed CONUA’s principled position against striking, insisting that cooperation, rather than disruption, is the best way forward for the Nigerian university system.

“Nevertheless, CONUA respectfully urges Vice Chancellors to ensure the safety and protection of its members while they carry out their legitimate work within their institutions.

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

“The union remains dedicated to quality education, national progress, and fostering peaceful industrial relations within the university system.

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

“We are grateful for the understanding and cooperation of all stakeholders in supporting this constructive approach to enhancing higher education in Nigeria.