The House of Representatives has stepped in to mediate the ongoing dispute between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) following the union’s declaration of a two-week warning strike.
During Tuesday’s plenary, the House urged both parties to return to the negotiating table to prevent further disruption to academic activities across the country.
The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by the lawmaker representing Badagry Federal Constituency, Lagos State, Hon. Oluwaseun Whinghan.
ASUU began the warning strike on Monday over the Federal Government’s alleged failure to address lingering issues, including the implementation of the 2009 ASUU-FGN Agreement, revitalisation funds, earned academic allowances, salary structure, and university autonomy.
Whinghan expressed concern that although ASUU described the strike as a temporary measure, past experiences had shown that such actions often escalate into prolonged shutdowns that severely impact students, lecturers, and parents.
“The Nigerian university system is central to national development, innovation, and human capital growth. Every disruption weakens our competitiveness and stifles youth productivity,” he said.
He further noted that education, as enshrined under Section 18 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), is a critical driver of social and technological progress, adding that both the government and the unions share a collective responsibility to safeguard its continuity and quality.
Following deliberations, the House directed its Committees on University Education and Labour, Employment, and Productivity to immediately intervene in the matter and facilitate a lasting resolution.
Speaker Tajudeen Abbas was also mandated to chair an ad-hoc committee to mediate between ASUU and the Federal Government and ensure that academic activities resume without further delay.
The House called on both parties to exercise restraint, prioritise the interests of students and the nation, and engage in transparent dialogue built on mutual respect and trust.
Additionally, lawmakers urged the Federal Government to establish a permanent joint consultative platform with recognised university unions to ensure continuous engagement and prevent future industrial crises.
— Hobnob News
