A committee has been established by the Federal Government to address certain outstanding issues brought up by the Academic Staff Union of Universities in a recent ultimatum. The Vice President of ASUU, Prof. Chris Piwuna, shared this information in Abuja.
The committee is scheduled to convene on September 11, 2024. This decision was reached following a closed-door meeting between ASUU’s leadership and representatives from the Federal Ministry of Education led by Prof. Tahir Mamman.
“The meeting has concluded; committees have been formed to address the IPPIS/EAA and salary-related matters. The committee is set to meet next week on the 11th,” Piwuna informed our correspondent.
After the national executive council meeting of the union at the University of Ibadan on August 19, 2024, public university lecturers threatened a nationwide strike due to the Federal Government’s failure to uphold the 2009 renegotiated agreement.
ASUU’s requests include enhancements in welfare and university funding, as well as a halt to the spread of universities across the country.
In response to ASUU’s ultimatum, Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, acknowledged that many of the contested issues date back to 1981. He mentioned that invitations had been sent to the union’s leadership and other organizations to address their concerns:
“Several of the concerns raised by ASUU are being addressed. For example, the matter of exiting the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System has been resolved by the President. Delays in implementing this directive are due to bureaucracy. However, these issues will be discussed and resolved when we meet on Monday.
“ASUU’s demands have been ongoing since 1981, with strikes affecting various governments. The President pledged a lasting solution during the campaign, and his actions demonstrate that commitment,” he stated.
The minister also urged ASUU to approach negotiations with consideration and an open mind to ensure the fair representation of all parties’ interests.