A meeting between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities has been rescheduled to take place on August 28 instead of the initial plan for Monday.
According to a source from the National Executive Council of ASUU, the decision to postpone the meeting was communicated on Monday, with the new date set for August 28.
Following discussions at a National Executive Council meeting held at the University of Ibadan on August 19, 2024, public university lecturers have threatened to embark on a nationwide strike due to the Federal Government’s failure to uphold the 2009 renegotiated agreement.
ASUU’s demands center on enhancing the welfare of university workers, improving university funding, and addressing the proliferation of universities across the country.
In response to ASUU’s ultimatum, the Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, highlighted that many of the contentious issues trace back to 1981.
He confirmed sending invitations to ASUU leadership and other relevant organizations, assuring that their concerns are being addressed.
Addressing the issues raised, Mamman mentioned progress on topics like exiting the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System, acknowledging bureaucratic delays but expressing optimism for resolutions during the upcoming meeting.
The Minister emphasized the President’s commitment to finding lasting solutions to ASUU’s longstanding demands and urged the union to approach negotiations with openness and consideration for all parties involved.