The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has announced a two-week nationwide warning strike, set to commence on Monday, across all university campuses in Nigeria.
The announcement was made by ASUU President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, during a press briefing at the union’s headquarters in the University of Abuja.
According to Piwuna, the decision followed the federal government’s failure to meet the union’s long-standing demands, which include improved funding for universities, better working conditions, and implementation of previously signed agreements.
“We have exhausted all avenues for dialogue. The government’s inaction has left us with no choice but to embark on this warning strike,” Piwuna stated.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu is set to depart Abuja on Sunday, October 12, for Rome, Italy, to attend the Aqaba Process Heads of State and Government Meeting, beginning October 14.
The summit, co-chaired by Jordan and Italy, aims to address the escalating security challenges in West Africa, including terrorism, maritime piracy, and organized crime.
According to a statement from the Presidency, Tinubu will join other world leaders to discuss regional stability, counter-terrorism strategies, and online radicalisation.
The Nigerian delegation will include:
- Bianca Odumegwu–Ojukwu, Minister of Defence
- Mohammed Abubakar, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs
- Nuhu Ribadu, National Security Adviser
- Mohammed Mohammed, Director-General, NIA
President Tinubu is also expected to hold bilateral talks with several global leaders to strengthen Nigeria’s regional security role.
Background: The Aqaba Process
Launched in 2015 by King Abdullah II of Jordan, the Aqaba Process is a global counter-terrorism initiative designed to enhance coordination among nations combating shared threats.
The initiative underscores the understanding that West Africa’s insecurity has global consequences, especially as extremist groups exploit digital platforms and illegal trade networks to expand their reach.
Public Reaction
The timing of Tinubu’s foreign trip has sparked mixed reactions, as many Nigerians question the government’s priorities amid rising discontent within the education sector.
With ASUU’s strike already set to disrupt academic activities nationwide, observers warn that the government’s handling of negotiations could determine whether the warning strike escalates into a full-blown industrial action.
