The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a four-week ultimatum to the Federal Government to meet the demands of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), warning of a nationwide shutdown if the issues remain unresolved.
NLC President Joe Ajaero delivered the warning on Monday during a press briefing in Abuja, following a meeting with leaders of unions representing tertiary institution workers. He said the ultimatum is intended to give the government time to address longstanding grievances, including the implementation of the 2009 ASUU-FGN agreement.
โIf the government fails to act within the stipulated period, the NLC will commence an indefinite strike in solidarity with its affiliated educational unions,โ Ajaero stated. He emphasized that labour is prepared to end all industrial actions if the government demonstrates sincerity, but warned that continued neglect would leave unions with no option but to shut down the country.
The ultimatum follows ASUUโs declaration of a two-week โtotal and comprehensiveโ strike on Sunday. ASUU President Chris Piwuna said the action was triggered by the expiration of a 14-day notice issued on September 28. The union cited unresolved issues including staff welfare, infrastructure deficits, salary arrears, and the failure to implement the 2009 agreement.
In response, the Federal Government criticized the strike, asserting that efforts were underway to address ASUUโs concerns. The Ministry of Education subsequently directed universities to enforce a โNo Work, No Payโ policy, in line with labour regulations.
A circular issued by the Ministry instructed vice-chancellors to conduct roll calls and physical headcounts of academic staff, and to submit reports identifying those present at work during the strike period.
The standoff underscores persistent tensions between the government and university unions over funding, governance, and labour rights in Nigeriaโs higher education sector.
