The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has threatened a showdown with the Federal Government over what it describes as a flawed and partial implementation of the December 2025 agreement. The union's National Executive Council (NEC) meeting at Modibbo Adama University, Yola, highlighted growing frustration with government inaction.
Key Issues Raised by ASUU
ASUU President Prof. Christopher Piwuna stated that members are concerned about the government's reluctance to resolve lingering issues, including withheld three-and-a-half months' salaries, promotion arrears, salary shortfalls from the IPPIS platform, unremitted third-party deductions, and arrears of the 25-35 per cent wage award. He warned that pent-up anger could lead to a new wave of industrial unrest.
Appeal to Stakeholders
Prof. Piwuna appealed to patriots and well-meaning Nigerians to urge state and federal governments to fully implement the agreement and resolve outstanding issues for the sake of parents, students, and the nation. He noted that the union remains open to collaboration but directed an emergency NEC meeting in the coming weeks to review the situation.
Background of the Agreement
In March 2026, The Guardian reported that the relative peace in public universities might end if the renegotiated agreement was not fully implemented. The landmark accord, set to end a 16-year impasse over the 2009 pact, was scheduled for implementation on January 1, 2026. It included a 40 per cent salary increase for lecturers, improved pension benefits, and revamped Earned Academic Allowances. However, five months later, full implementation remains elusive, with some universities implementing components while the Federal Government has not.
