The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has reiterated that it has six unresolved issues with the federal government, according to the National President, Professor Emmanuel Osodeke. Osodeke made this statement during the opening of the multipurpose secretariat of the ASUU, University of Ibadan (UI) branch, in Ibadan on Thursday.

Addressing members, Osodeke emphasized that ASUU had given the federal government ample time to address the pending issues but was readying members for another potential impasse if necessary. The unresolved matters, as outlined by Osodeke, include the renegotiation of agreements, payment of withheld salaries, earned academic allowances, release of NEEDS assessment funds, and the reconstitution of governing councils.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the delay in reconstituting governing councils of tertiary institutions since last June, Osodeke clarified that ASUU did not believe the councils were dissolved but that government withdrew its members. He asserted that ASUU members would continue their terms once the government announced new governing councils.

Furthermore, Osodeke highlighted ASUU’s demand for a negotiated wage rather than the wage award ranging from N25,000 to N35,000. He stressed the importance of a negotiated salary and urged members to stand firm in their stance.

Commending the University of Ibadan ASUU branch for constructing the new secretariat without external donations, Osodeke emphasized the need for expertise from universities to handle government projects rather than consultants.

In his remarks, Professor Ayo Akinwole, the University of Ibadan ASUU Chairman, lauded members for their contributions towards completing the secretariat. He emphasized the importance of solidarity among union members in striving for a better future for universities and the nation.

During the event, Professor Omotoye Olorode, a Professor of Botany from Odoje Biodiversity Centre, Ogbomosho, delivered a lecture on the foundationality of neoliberal narratives in response to ASUU’s strike. He underscored the importance of ASUU’s struggles in building a nation where every citizen has access to education, health, and welfare.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment from ASUU members to continue advocating for their rights and the improvement of Nigeria’s educational sector.