FG Holds High-Level Talks with ASUU to End 16-Year University Funding Dispute

Ministries and departments to finalise counter-proposal aimed at lasting resolution of protracted impasse

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By A1 News Desk | Abuja, Nigeria – 28th Aug, 2025

The federal government is convening a high-level meeting in Abuja with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to address unresolved issues in a 16-year-long dispute. The talks aim to finalise a comprehensive counter-proposal and avert potential nationwide strikes that could disrupt academic calendars.

Government Moves to Resolve Longstanding Dispute
On Thursday, key federal ministries and agencies—including Education, Finance, Labour and Productivity, Budget Office, Salaries and Wages Commission, and the Office of the Solicitor General—will meet with ASUU to negotiate solutions to lingering disagreements.

Education Minister Tunji Alausa told THISDAY that the Bola Tinubu administration has resolved several critical issues since taking office and is committed to settling the matter holistically. “We want to be very meticulous. Previous agreements were rushed, and the dispute has lingered for 16 years. This time, we aim for a comprehensive resolution,” Alausa said.

Progress Already Achieved
The minister confirmed that part of the first tranche of N150 billion out of the total N1.2 trillion needs assessment has already been released. Key allowances, including earned academic allowances and postgraduate supervision payments, have been addressed. The government also plans to implement the proposed 25 percent wage adjustment once finances allow.

Union Action and Government Response
Several ASUU branches staged coordinated campus protests on Tuesday, warning of a strike if unresolved demands are not met. Alausa questioned the timing of the protests, noting that the government had already begun technical deliberations on a counter-proposal to be submitted to the Yayale Ahmed Committee for review.

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Holistic Approach Emphasised
Alausa stressed that the current administration will avoid rushed agreements, instead working with technical teams to ensure any settlement is implementable. “We urge patience. The goal is a wholesome and sustainable resolution that addresses all outstanding issues,” he said.

Progress on Arrears and Allowances
Earned allowances and postgraduate supervision payments have been cleared, while the 25% wage adjustment is set for phased implementation as finances improve.

Technical Committees Draft Counter-Proposal
Federal agencies are finalising a counter-proposal to address ASUU’s 16-year-old grievances, which will be submitted to the Yayale Ahmed Committee for verification.

Union Protests Continue
ASUU demonstrations highlight lingering tensions and the urgency of an enforceable, long-term solution.

Resolving the ASUU dispute is critical to preventing further strikes that disrupt academic calendars, delay graduations, and hinder the training of skilled professionals essential for Nigeria’s economic growth and development.