TENSION IN IVORY TOWERS: FG WARNS ASUU — ‘NO WORK, NO PAY’ POLICY STILL IN FORCE AS STRIKE LOOMS

The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) against proceeding with its planned strike, insisting that the “no work, no pay” policy will be strictly enforced should the union withdraw its services.

The warning came through a statement released on Sunday by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, Boriowo Folasade, conveying the positions of the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmed.

According to the statement, the government reaffirmed its commitment to constructive dialogue and sustainable solutions to the challenges facing the university system, stressing that it has shown “sincerity, patience, and goodwill” in all engagements with the academic union.

> “Virtually all the concerns raised by ASUU have been addressed, including the introduction of a substantial percentage of teaching allowance and significant improvements in the conditions of service of academic staff,” the statement read in part.

The Ministers warned that while government remains open to dialogue, it would not compromise on accountability, discipline, and adherence to labour laws, reiterating that the policy of ‘no work, no pay’ remains in full effect.

> “The administration will not tolerate any action capable of disrupting academic activities in our tertiary institutions. The interest of Nigerian students must come first,” the statement added.

This comes as tension heightens across campuses nationwide following ASUU’s recent declaration of a two-week warning strike scheduled to commence Monday, October 13, 2025, after the expiration of its ultimatum to the Federal Government.

The government, however, maintained that it has met most of ASUU’s demands, calling on the union to embrace continued dialogue rather than industrial confrontation.

> “Government has gone above and beyond to meet ASUU halfway. We urge the union to act responsibly and work with us to preserve the academic stability we’ve worked so hard to restore,” the statement concluded.