The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has appealed to the Federal Government to engage with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and address their demands to prevent another disruptive strike. The call follows ASUU’s recent 14-day ultimatum issued over unresolved issues, including unpaid salaries and renegotiations of agreements.

Speaking to reporters in Abuja, NANS Senate President Akinteye Babatunde expressed concern over the impact another strike could have on students and the education sector. “We are asking the Federal Government to meet with ASUU and discuss with them because an ASUU strike at this point in time is not advisable,” he said.

ASUU is demanding the completion of the renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/ASUU Agreement, based on the Nimi Briggs Committee’s Draft Agreement of 2021. Additionally, the union is calling for the release of withheld salaries from the 2022 strike, unpaid wages for staff on sabbatical and part-time appointments, and the payment of outstanding third-party deductions like check-off dues and cooperative contributions.

ASUU also seeks increased funding for the revitalization of public universities, as well as the payment of Earned Academic Allowances, both of which are partly included in the 2023 Federal Government Budget.

NANS, representing students across the country, has emphasized that a strike would cause further disruptions to the academic calendar, which is already strained from previous industrial actions. The student body is urging the Federal Government to act swiftly to prevent a breakdown in the university system and avoid the negative consequences of another strike on Nigerian students.

The Federal Government’s response to ASUU’s demands and the outcome of negotiations in the coming days will be crucial in determining whether the looming strike will be averted.