The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a stern ultimatum of three weeks to the Federal Government to address its demands or face the prospect of industrial action.

This warning was delivered by Comrade Salim Ahmed, Chairman of ASUU’s Federal University of Dutse (FUD) Branch in Jigawa State, during an emergency press conference held in Dutse.

Ahmed emphasized the Union’s disappointment with the current administration’s disregard for ASUU’s leadership since its inception in May 2023. He highlighted that despite ASUU’s efforts to engage the government in line with the principles of collective bargaining as per the International Labour Organisation (ILO), all attempts to convene a meeting and resolve issues have failed.

The core grievances outlined by Ahmed include the renegotiation of the FGN/ASUU 2009 agreement, which addresses issues such as welfare of ASUU members, university autonomy, funding for university revitalization, and the proliferation of public universities. He also pointed out concerns regarding employment conditions, including the dissolution of Governing Councils in federal and state universities, delayed salaries, and the implementation of IPPIS-related issues.

In response to the government’s perceived reluctance to address these issues decisively, Ahmed stated that ASUU branches nationwide, including FUD, have resolved to raise awareness among stakeholders, including parents and the general public. They intend to mobilize their members over the next three weeks to prepare for potential industrial actions if their demands remain unmet.

Ahmed concluded by calling on well-meaning individuals and stakeholders to urge the Nigerian government to prioritize resolving these issues and engage constructively with ASUU leadership to prevent further disruptions in the university system.

This ultimatum underscores ASUU’s determination to seek redress for longstanding grievances and ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of higher education in Nigeria.