Hope For Students As Reps Mediate FG–ASUU Faceoff, Push For Lasting Solution

In a bold move to rescue Nigeria’s troubled university system, the House of Representatives has stepped in to mediate the lingering faceoff between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

The intervention followed a motion of urgent national importance sponsored by Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan, representing Badagry Federal Constituency, during Tuesday’s plenary session.

Whingan, while presenting the motion, lamented the recurring strikes by ASUU, describing them as a “national tragedy” that has crippled academic progress, disrupted research, and shattered the hopes of millions of students across the country.

> “The incessant strikes have done more harm than good. They have derailed the nation’s academic system, fueled brain drain, and destroyed public confidence in our universities,” he said.

The lawmaker called on both the Federal Government and ASUU to put the interests of students first, urging them to embrace dialogue built on transparency, sincerity, and mutual respect.

The motion came shortly after ASUU declared a two-week warning strike, accusing the government of failing to honour key parts of past agreements. In response, the Federal Government insisted on enforcing its “no work, no pay” policy and urged lecturers to return to classrooms.

Reacting to the development, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, announced the constitution of an ad-hoc committee to broker peace between both parties. Abbas said he would personally lead the process to ensure a lasting and credible resolution.

> “We cannot allow the education of our youths to continue suffering because of unresolved disagreements. The House will work tirelessly to ensure a sustainable mechanism that prevents future strikes,” Abbas stated.

The House also called for the establishment of a Joint Consultative Platform—a permanent structure for dialogue and engagement between the Federal Government and university unions—to address future disputes before they escalate into strikes.

Lawmakers agreed that Nigeria’s education system, regarded as the bedrock of national development, can no longer be held hostage by industrial actions. They urged all stakeholders to act responsibly and put the future of students and the nation above every other consideration.