ASUU Declares Indefinite Strike at University of Jos Over Unpaid Salaries
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has declared an indefinite strike at its University of Jos (UNIJOS) branch, bringing academic activities to a standstill. This industrial action, announced on Wednesday, April 9, 2026, stems from the nonpayment of March 2026 salaries and the exclusion of Earned Academic Allowance, issues that have severely strained relations between staff and administration.
Immediate Halt to Academic Operations
Prof. Jurbe Joseph Molwus, the branch chairperson, confirmed that the strike takes immediate effect, directing all academic staff to refrain from teaching, examinations, and official meetings until their demands are met. In a message to members, Molwus stated, "Dear comrades, after following due process, we hereby request all members to abstain from lectures, conduct of examinations and statutory meetings as our salary for the month of March 2026 is yet to be paid despite our patience." He linked the payment delay to the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, noting that the university's bursary department had already completed its processing role.
Union Concerns and Enforcement Measures
The union expressed deep concern that continued salary delays could disrupt industrial harmony, emphasizing that members' patience has been overstretched. To ensure strict compliance, ASUU has established a monitoring team to enforce adherence across the institution. This move underscores the union's resolve to address longstanding grievances and protect the welfare of academic staff at UNIJOS.
Broader Context of Federal Agreements
This strike occurs against a backdrop of recent federal efforts to improve relations with ASUU. Earlier, the Nigerian federal government concluded a major agreement with the union as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at repositioning higher education. Additionally, the government has begun implementing a 40% academic allowance increase for ASUU members, reflecting a commitment to honor agreements and prevent disruptions. However, the unresolved issues at UNIJOS highlight ongoing challenges in ensuring timely salary payments and maintaining stability in Nigeria's public universities.
