The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has raised concerns over the recent warning by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) regarding a possible nationwide strike due to unresolved issues with the Federal Government.
In a joint statement released on Friday in Abuja by NANS President, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, and the association’s National Public Relations Officer, Comrade Samson Adeyemi, the student body appealed to the government to take urgent and meaningful steps toward resolving ASUU’s demands to avoid disruptions to academic activities.
Oladoja acknowledged the legitimacy of ASUU’s concerns, which include the renegotiation of the 2009 ASUU-FGN Agreement, unpaid salary arrears, delayed promotions, and the welfare of retired academic staff. While describing the issues as valid, he stressed that industrial action should not be the first resort, as it would negatively impact students who are often the worst affected.
He noted that one of the key achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has been the maintenance of academic stability in universities for over two years, as well as the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which has improved access to higher education. According to him, these developments represent significant progress that should be preserved.
The NANS President therefore urged the Federal Government to engage with ASUU in good faith and demonstrate sincerity in addressing the union’s demands. He also called on ASUU to consider the long-term impact of a strike on students and to remain committed to dialogue.
“Nigerian students cannot afford another round of unnecessary academic disruption,” Oladoja said.
He concluded by urging both the Federal Government and ASUU to prioritize the interests of students and ensure the stability of the country’s higher education sector through sincere and constructive engagement.
