By Ireti Asemota.
In a significant breakthrough to prevent another nationwide shutdown of public universities, the Federal Government has offered the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) a 40% salary increase, alongside revised allowances and commitments to longstanding demands. The proposal, tabled during closed-door talks in Abuja that stretched from Monday to Tuesday, represents the most substantial wage concession in recent years and could halt escalating tensions after ASUU’s one-month ultimatum expired on November 29.
Sources close to the negotiations, including ASUU insiders, confirmed the government’s offer includes not only the 40% pay bump but also mechanisms for automatic adjustments tied to future public service reviews, new allowances, and funding for university revitalization. Talks, led by former Head of Service Yayale Ahmed for the government and ASUU President Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke for the union, are set to resume next week, with branch leaders tasked to consult members nationwide.
A Game-Changer to Avert Shutdowns?
The offer emerges amid ASUU’s frustration over unpaid salaries, eroded purchasing power (inflation at 34.7% in November 2025), and stalled implementation of the 2009 agreement, including the N1.3 trillion Needs Assessment fund. The union’s recent six-day warning strike in October disrupted classes, echoing the 2022 eight-month shutdown that affected millions of students. Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa, abroad during the talks, reiterated Tinubu’s stance: “The President doesn’t want another ASUU strike… We’ve met most demands.”
ASUU’s Next Steps: Branch Consultations
ASUU’s National Executive Council (NEC) has reached consensus on the offer but tasked branch leaders with nationwide consultations before resuming talks. A senior union official: “Branch leaders will update members… Negotiations continue next week.” The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) backed ASUU, vowing intervention if talks falter.
If accepted, the deal could stabilize campuses, but ASUU’s history of skepticism (e.g., 2022’s stalled 2009 pact) means implementation is key. Students, parents, and stakeholders breathe easier—for now.
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