The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has announced the suspension of its two-week warning strike following an overnight National Executive Council (NEC) meeting that concluded early Wednesday morning.
ASUU President, Comrade Chris Piwuna confirmed the decision during a press briefing on Wednesday.
Comrade Piwuna explained that the move was made to acknowledge the efforts of concerned Nigerians including students, parents, and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) who intervened to ease tensions.
The union had initiated the strike on October 13 to protest what it described as the federal government’s inadequate response to several persistent issues in the university system.
Among the key concerns were the finalisation of the renegotiated 2009 FGN-ASUU agreement, the release of withheld salaries, and sustainable funding to revitalise public universities.
Other demands included the payment of 25–35 per cent salary arrears, promotion arrears spanning over four years, and the release of withheld third-party deductions such as cooperative contributions and union check-off dues.
ASUU also called for an end to the alleged victimisation of lecturers at Lagos State University (LASU), Prince Abubakar Audu University, and the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO).
Piwuna noted that although “useful engagements” with government officials have taken place regarding the 2009 agreement renegotiation, significant work remained.
The NEC’s resolution to suspend the strike reflects optimism about the government’s willingness to resume negotiations.
ASUU expressed hope that meaningful progress would soon be made to address its core demands, ensuring stability and development within Nigeria’s university system.
