The Federal Government has reportedly proposed a 40 per cent increase in salaries for lecturers under the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) as the two sides resume talks to forestall a nationwide strike.
The proposal comes as ASUU prepares to meet a government delegation led by the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Yayale Ahmed.
The union’s leadership took the decision after a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja on Sunday, which was attended by branch leaders from universities across the country.
These leaders are expected to brief members at their respective institutions on the latest developments.
A source within ASUU, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that discussions with the government would continue next week.
“They presented a 40 per cent salary increment. Branch leaders will update members, and negotiations will proceed with the government next week,” the source said.
ASUU had earlier issued a one-month ultimatum to the Federal Government, which ended last Saturday, raising concerns over a potential strike that could disrupt academic activities nationwide.
In an attempt to preempt industrial action, the government summoned ASUU leaders to Abuja for a meeting that ran from Monday into Tuesday. Both sides, however, have kept the content of the discussions private, in line with strict negotiation protocols.
The union has repeatedly expressed frustration with what it calls the government’s slow response to its long-standing demands. Among the issues at stake are the review of the 2009 ASUU–Federal Government agreement, payment of outstanding salaries and allowances, and the release of the university revitalisation fund.
The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, currently out of the country, insisted that the government has made significant progress in meeting ASUU’s requirements.
Speaking to correspondents at the State House recently, he reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s directive that public universities must remain operational.
“The President does not want ASUU to embark on a strike, and we are doing everything possible to ensure that students continue their studies. We have met nearly all their demands and remain committed to resolving outstanding issues at the negotiation table,” Alausa said.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has also voiced its support for ASUU, promising to advocate for lecturers should the government fail to implement agreed-upon measures.
A senior NEC member stressed that the union’s position remains focused on the implementation of the Nimi Briggs Committee report and other long-standing entitlements.
