2022 ASUU Strike: Lawmakers to interface with Government on Lecturers’ salaries

The House of Representatives has resolved to interface with the federal government of Nigeria, in the issues surrounding the non-payment of the salaries of members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities ( ASUU) by the federal government for the eight months, they were on strike in 2022.

This followed the adoption of a motion by Paul Nnamchi and three others, calling for the intervention of the House on eight months of outstanding salaries of the university lecturers.

While leading debate on the motion, he recalled that ASUU members had embarked on an eight-month strike, in 2022, due to the Federal Government’s failure to honour its past agreements with the union.

The lawmaker noted that regrettably, the strike by the lecturers, which was intended to get the government that systemic issues in the universities,“Have led to financial consequences for dedicated” ASUU, who participated in the industrial action.

“University lecturers play a crucial role in the education system, providing knowledge, guidance, and mentorship to future leaders, ensuring a stable and motivated academic workforce for educational institution development. 

“The ASUU is a recognized body of academic professionals in Nigeria, committed to the advancement of education and research within the Federal University System.” He said.

Nnamchi also said that “Federal University lecturers are facing financial hardships and distress due to eight months’ salary owed as a result of the ASUU strike, with adverse consequences on students’ educational experiences and overall well-being. 

“Unpaid salaries can negatively affect lecturers’ morale, job satisfaction, and teaching effectiveness, thereby affecting the quality of education provided to students; the educational success and prospects of students are intricately linked to the financial security and dedication of teachers.”

Nnamchi said that resolving the issue is crucial for the stability and excellence of universities, the welfare of educators, and the nation’s economy.

The House therefore mandated its Committees on University Education, Finance, Appropriations, Labour and Productivity, and Legislative Compliance to interface with ASUU and the Federal Government to resolve the issues surrounding the outstanding eight months’ salaries of the lecturing, owing to the application of the “No work, no pay” policy of the government.

The committees are expected to report back to the House within four weeks for further legislative actions.