The Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) will hold a crucial meeting on September 11, 2024 in a bid to prevent an impending nationwide strike.
This follows the establishment of committees tasked with addressing key issues raised by ASUU, including the contentious Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), unpaid salaries, and university welfare.
This development comes after a closed-door meeting between ASUU’s leadership, represented by its Vice President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, and officials from the Federal Ministry of Education, led by Minister Tahir Mamman.
The formation of the committees is a response to the demands set forth by ASUU in an ultimatum issued nearly three weeks ago, after a national executive council meeting held on August 19, 2024, at the University of Ibadan.
The union had warned of a potential strike over the government’s failure to implement the 2009 renegotiated agreement, particularly regarding improved welfare, university funding, and curbing the proliferation of universities.
ASUU’s grievances are rooted in historical challenges, with some dating back to 1981.
In response, the Minister of Education assured that many of the union’s concerns are being addressed, citing that the delay in implementing certain agreements, such as the IPPIS exit, is largely due to bureaucratic hurdles.
The government has expressed optimism that the upcoming meeting will yield positive outcomes, while urging ASUU to approach negotiations with flexibility and a willingness to compromise, ensuring that the interests of all stakeholders are considered.
