How to End the Endless ASUU–FG Disputes in Nigeria

The two-week warning strike organized by members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), aimed at advocating for funding and other demands, was yet another unnecessary disruption. The continuous halting of academic activities, especially in a system that is already fragile, offers little benefit. Both the government and ASUU must explore more agreeable and constructive methods to resolve industrial conflicts so as not to jeopardize the educational environment further.

This warning strike indicates that more actions may follow if ASUU and the government do not reach a sustainable resolution. Nigerians are hoping for renewed negotiations. This time, all relevant issues should be addressed to reach lasting solutions, moving away from the government’s tendency for temporary and reactive measures.

In announcing the conclusion of the strike, ASUU President Prof. Chris Piwuna stated that the union is providing the government with a month to finalize the renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/ASUU Agreement, pay the withheld salaries from three and a half months, address outstanding salary arrears of 25-35 percent, resolve over four years of promotion arrears, ensure sustainable funding for public universities, and stop the victimization of lecturers in specific institutions.

Nigeria struggles with effectively managing and utilizing its higher education institutions. Achieving global recognition for Nigerian universities remains a challenge, as none appear among the world’s top 500 universities. In the 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, both the University of Ibadan and the University of Lagos earned places within the top 1,000, which, while commendable, still falls short of Nigeria’s aspirations. Within Africa, the University of Ibadan ranks 10th, yet it has the potential for a higher position. University faculty members should take a greater interest in the global perception of their institutions’ standards.

To improve international recognition, Nigeria’s higher education institutions need to reevaluate their teaching methodologies, address the low ratio of faculty to students, and create a more conducive learning environment. Emphasis should also be placed on enhancing research conditions and research quality, and ensuring that industry derives benefits from academic research. Considerations of how research outcomes address societal issues should engage educators, focusing beyond just their personal financial interests.

It is impractical to assume that the government can fulfill all the requirements of universities or educators. While the government must be held accountable for improving its performance, honoring agreements, and curbing wasteful public spending, Nigerian universities should also foster a global perspective and adopt best practices.

At the core of the ongoing crisis in the university system lies funding. Over the years, institutions have struggled with insufficient financial support. The government itself is restricted by low productivity, inadequate revenue, and misaligned priorities. For the year 2025, the total education budget is set at N3.52 trillion, which constitutes 7 percent of the overall budget, focusing on infrastructure, teacher development, and increasing access for out-of-school children. This budget significantly falls short of UNESCO’s recommendation, which advocates for allocating between 15 and 20 percent of national budgets to education expenditures.

This annual funding deficit impacts the quality of education, research, and the ability to retain skilled staff. It also leads to overcrowded classrooms due to infrastructural issues, undercompensated educators, and unmet government commitments.

Given the ongoing poverty in the nation, public universities are similarly compelled to charge high fees for services beyond tuition. The government should prioritize education as the key sector responsible for equipping the country for the future. Without a strong educational foundation, Nigeria will struggle to compete in science and technology. Investing in quality education is crucial for preparing the next generation to tackle future challenges. The expenditure of governance is excessively high, and the government must seek ways to reduce waste and allocate more funds to education. Corruption significantly undermines adequate funding for education and other sectors.

Both the government and ASUU should continue discussions on improving the university system. Nigerians need universities they can take pride in—institutions capable of turning academic research into practical solutions. Challenges within this sector must be confronted directly for resolution, rather than being sidelined in the continuous pursuit of better welfare. The government and ASUU must leverage ongoing dialogue to prevent further communication breakdowns. The Yayale Ahmed Negotiating Committee should make every effort to settle the crisis between the government and higher education unions. The committee should be open and honest in addressing the issues and assigning responsibility where needed. Furthermore, it should suggest attainable and forward-looking solutions to complex problems.

The Ministry of Education must give ASUU the respect it deserves and involve it in its reform processes. The Ministry cannot independently create reforms without the Union’s input. The Union is a constant participant in the system, unlike ministers who may change over time.

It is positive that the federal government has agreed to integrate the disputed Earned Academic Allowance (EAA) into university employees’ salaries starting in 2026, ensuring timely and sustainable payments. The government must keep all its commitments. University instructors deserve better salaries and working conditions that align with international standards.

Regarding ASUU, it is time to rethink their approach to resolving conflicts with their employers. Strikes only exacerbate problems; they do not solve them, especially in a sensitive sector where students and parents are also affected.