Just In: ASUU, FG Deadlocked, Rescheduled Meeting For September 6

The Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have agreed to reconvene on September 6, 2024, to continue negotiations on the lingering issues between the two parties.

The announcement came following a meeting between the Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, and ASUU leaders at the Federal Ministry of Education on Wednesday.

The meeting was necessitated by ASUU’s threat to embark on a nationwide strike if the government failed to address their demands. The union’s ultimatum stems from the government’s alleged neglect of the 2009 renegotiated agreement.

READ ALSO: ASUU Issues 21-Day Warning Strike Notice To Federal Government

ASUU’s key demands include improved welfare packages for university lecturers, increased funding for universities, and a halt to the proliferation of new universities nationwide.

In response to ASUU’s threat, Minister Mamman acknowledged that some of the issues raised by the union date back to 1981. However, he assured that the government is committed to resolving these matters.

“Most of the issues raised by ASUU are being addressed,” the minister said. “For example, the issue of exiting the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) has been resolved by the President. The delay in implementation is due to bureaucratic processes. But by the time we meet on Monday, we hope to discuss and resolve some of these issues.”

READ ALSO: Fresh Strike Looms As ASUU Issues 2 Weeks Ultimatum To FG Over 2009 Agreement

Mamman also appealed to ASUU to approach the negotiations with an open mind and a willingness to compromise. He emphasized that the government is committed to finding a lasting solution to the issues and ensuring the best interests of all parties are served.