KEY POINTS
- ASUU claims the IMF and World Bank are undermining Nigerian public universities.
- ASUU demands the government finalize its overdue 2009 agreement.
- ASUU offers PhD grants to members in honor of union heroes.
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has accused the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) of deliberately undermining Nigeria’s public universities. During ASUU’s Heroes Day celebration in Abuja, ASUU National President Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke claimed that these financial institutions are attempting to dismantle the nation’s public education system. “Their determination to destroy and bury our public university system has not abated,” Osodeke stated, emphasizing that these external pressures hinder Nigeria’s academic growth and sustainability.
Union laments stalled renegotiation of 2009 government agreement
ASUU expressed frustration over the government’s delay in renegotiating its 2009 agreement, which includes improved funding and working conditions. Osodeke noted that despite numerous Memoranda of Understanding and Action, the ASUU-FGN 2009 Agreement remains unresolved. The union criticized the continued enforcement of the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS), which ASUU argues disrupts academic autonomy. Adding to the grievances, the government has withheld three and a half months’ salaries from ASUU members, along with backlogged wages and allowances. “It is lamentable that we are still struggling for a renegotiation twelve years overdue,” Osodeke remarked.
ASUU announces PhD grants in honor of union heroes
Celebrating Heroes Day, ASUU awarded PhD grants to select members as a tribute to those who have championed public university education in Nigeria. Each grant, valued at N500,000, will support research and academic development. ASUU leaders commended the dedication of their members, particularly those in institutions facing persecution for supporting the union’s mission. Osodeke affirmed ASUU’s commitment to its cause, emphasizing that ASUU will continue advocating for Nigerian universities to receive adequate support and autonomy. The union honored esteemed members, including Prof. T. Uzodinma Nwala, Prof. Oye Oyediran, and others for their contributions to Nigerian education.
ASUU’s accusations and continued demands underscore its concerns about preserving public university education in Nigeria. The union calls on the government to take immediate action to resolve outstanding issues and resist external pressures that undermine the education sector.
