The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has suspended its two-week strike, effective October 22, following “useful engagements” with the Nigerian government. ASUU President, Professor Chris Piwuna, announced the decision, stating that the government has returned to the negotiation table.

The strike, which began on October 13, was called to protest the government’s failure to honor agreements reached with the union, dating back to 2009. ASUU’s demands include improved staff welfare, university autonomy, payment of outstanding allowances, and settlement of salary arrears.

Stakeholders have blamed the government for not properly managing the longstanding issues, leading to the strike. The government, however, has accused ASUU of ignoring its efforts to resolve the issues.

The suspension of the strike is seen as a positive development, with ASUU indicating its willingness to resume negotiations. The union has gone on strike 17 times since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, resulting in significant disruptions to academic activities.

The government has paid NGN50 billion to ASUU members and other university staff as part of settling unpaid earned allowances, but implementation of the remaining demands has stalled. ASUU is pushing for the government to address the outstanding issues, including payment of promotion arrears, salary increases, and improved infrastructure ¹ ² ³.