A critical meeting between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has commenced in Abuja, as both parties aim to prevent another nationwide strike in the country’s public universities.
The meeting, which is taking place at the Conference Hall of the Federal Ministry of Education, follows a recent threat by ASUU to embark on industrial action over what the union describes as the government’s failure to meet its demands.
ASUU, led by its President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, expressed frustration over the unmet commitments, which reportedly include issues related to funding, staff welfare, and the implementation of past agreements.
Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, had previously addressed the media, signalling the government’s readiness to engage with the union.
However, an earlier planned meeting last Monday was postponed without explanation.
Other notable participants at the meeting include top officials from the Federal Ministry of Education and former ASUU presidents, led by the immediate past president, Prof. Biodun Ogunyemi.
The outcome of this meeting is anticipated to be crucial in determining whether public universities in Nigeria will face another disruptive strike.
Both parties are under pressure to find an amicable solution that ensures the continuation of academic activities across the nation’s universities.