Education Minister: President Tinubu Instructed Us to Prevent ASUU Strikes

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to preventing strikes in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions, with a renewed focus on proactive engagement and relationship building with academic unions.

Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, stated on Tuesday that President Bola Tinubu has given a firm directive to his cabinet to put an end to industrial actions by university and college unions such as the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU), the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU), and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU).

“The President has made it clear that never again should ASUU or any tertiary institution union go on strike,” Alausa said during a televised interview. “It’s not just about making promises; it’s about building real relationships and maintaining trust. This administration is meeting its obligations and engaging regularly with union leaders.”

The minister also dismissed any concerns about an imminent strike, insisting that the government remains actively engaged with all relevant bodies to ensure continued academic stability.

His remarks followed the recent suspension of a strike by the ASUU branch at Yobe State University. The industrial action, which began on July 11, was called off after the union signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the state government. According to the branch chairman, Ahmed Karage, the national leadership of ASUU approved the decision to end the strike after both parties agreed on steps to address outstanding demands.

In addition to improving labor relations, Alausa noted that ongoing reforms within the education sector are already beginning to pay off. He highlighted recent international rankings that have recognized some Nigerian public universities for their academic progress and global relevance.