ASUU Gives Federal Government 4-Day Deadline Over Lecturer Pay

Union Issues Fresh Ultimatum

THE Academic Staff Union of Universities has issued a four-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding the immediate implementation of a newly approved salary structure for university lecturers across the country.

The directive was announced by ASUU President, Christopher Piwuna, during a public lecture at Sa’adu Zungur University, Yuli Campus, in Bauchi State.

Demand for Immediate Action

Piwuna stated that the union expects the government to begin payment under the revised salary framework within the stipulated timeframe, warning that failure to comply would trigger a strong response.

“We have issued a four-day ultimatum… Failure to comply will attract a strong response from the union,” he said.

The salary adjustment follows earlier negotiations between ASUU and government representatives, though implementation has yet to commence.

Welfare and Brain Drain Concerns

The ASUU leadership emphasised that the demand is part of a broader push to improve lecturers’ welfare and address persistent challenges in Nigeria’s higher education system.

According to the union, inadequate remuneration has contributed significantly to the migration of academic staff to better-paying opportunities abroad, weakening the country’s university system.

Recurring Disputes and Implementation Gaps

ASUU also criticised the government’s track record in honouring agreements, noting that delays and inconsistencies have repeatedly led to industrial disputes.

Observers say the latest ultimatum underscores longstanding tensions between both parties, with unresolved issues continuing to strain relations.

Risk of Disruption

The development has raised concerns about a potential strike, which could once again disrupt academic activities in public universities nationwide.

ASUU has historically relied on industrial action to press its demands, often leading to prolonged shutdowns that affect millions of students.