The Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have signed and unveiled a new agreement aimed at improving the quality of Nigeria’s university education system and ensuring long-term stability in the sector.
The agreement, which replaces the long-standing 2009 pact that fueled years of industrial disputes and repeated strikes, was formally signed on Wednesday at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Conference Hall, Maitama, Abuja.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji (Maruf) Alausa, the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, and the Minister of Labour and Employment, Mohammed Dingyadi, among others.
ASUU Expresses Cautious Optimism
Speaking at the event, ASUU President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, said the union remains cautiously optimistic, expressing hope that the Federal Government would faithfully implement the new agreement without the need for industrial action.
“We are optimistic that the government will implement this agreement in totality, but pessimism still exists because of our history,” Piwuna said.
“It is our belief that Dr. Tunji Alausa will be different, and that ASUU will not need to issue a strike threat before any part of this agreement is implemented.”
He added that ASUU remains open to dialogue and constructive engagement in the interest of Nigeria’s education system.
‘A Turning Point for Tertiary Education’ — FG
Describing the agreement as historic, Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, said it marks a decisive turning point in the evolution of Nigeria’s tertiary education sector.
According to him, the agreement reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to quality education and an uninterrupted academic calendar in Nigerian universities.
“This occasion represents far more than the presentation of a document; it symbolises renewed trust, restored confidence, and a decisive turning point in the history of Nigeria’s tertiary education system,” Alausa said.
“Today’s agreement is a clear and unprecedented demonstration of the President’s commitment to quality education and academic stability.”
Call for Sincere Implementation
Also speaking, Minister of Labour and Employment, Mohammed Dingyadi, stressed that the success of the agreement lies in its faithful and timely implementation.
He commended ASUU for its maturity and constructive engagement, noting that responsible unionism is essential for sustainable industrial relations.
“Agreements gain true meaning not at the point of signing but through consistent and honest implementation,” Dingyadi said.
“Sincere execution will foster lasting industrial peace and restore confidence among students, parents, and the wider Nigerian public.”
Senate Hails Agreement as Major Milestone
The Chairman, Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund, Senator Muntari Dandutse, described the agreement as a significant milestone toward the sustainable development of Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.
“We are not just signing a document; we are securing a promising future for Nigeria—our children, our academia, and our national destiny,” he said.
“This agreement is a historic step, born out of intense dialogue and a collective refusal to allow our universities remain trapped in recurrent crises.”
The new agreement is widely seen as a critical step toward restoring stability, rebuilding trust, and repositioning Nigeria’s university system for sustainable growth and global competitiveness.
