Reports indicate the Federal Government has proposed a 40% salary increase. This offer is for members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). Sources in Abuja confirmed these ongoing discussions.
This proposal precedes ASUU’s upcoming negotiations. Yayale Ahmed leads the government’s team. The union’s National Executive Council (NEC) met in Abuja Sunday. They reached a consensus to restart talks.
Branch leaders attended the meeting. They will now inform their members. University staff nationwide will receive updates.
A NEC member confirmed ongoing discussions. They spoke anonymously due to negotiation rules. Both sides aim to resolve long-standing university issues.
The source stated: “A 40% salary increase was proposed.” “Branch leaders will update members.” “Negotiations with the government resume next week.”
Efforts to Prevent Strikes
Public universities face rising tension. ASUU’s one-month ultimatum expired last Saturday. This has caused increased concern.
The Federal Government sought to prevent a nationwide academic shutdown. They invited ASUU leaders to a meeting in Abuja. It began Monday and continued Tuesday. Both parties kept results confidential. This is standard due to negotiation protocols.
ASUU previously threatened a major strike. They accused the government of neglecting critical issues. Key dispute points include: reviewing the 2009 agreement. Other points are paying outstanding salaries and allowances. They also seek release of university revitalization funds.
Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa is currently abroad. He asserts that the government has met ASUU’s demands. Two weeks ago, he spoke to State House correspondents. He emphasized President Bola Tinubu’s directive: public universities must stay open. Dialogue aims to keep students in school.
The Minister stated: “The President instructed us to prevent an ASUU strike.” “We are doing our best for students to remain in school.” “The recent six-day strike was unnecessary.” “We have addressed almost all their demands.” “We are back negotiating. This will be resolved.”
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