By Naija247news Education Desk
The Federal Government has directed vice-chancellors of Nigerian universities to enforce the “no work, no pay” policy for members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) participating in the ongoing nationwide strike.
The directive was issued in a circular dated October 13, 2025, signed by Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa, and sent to key officials including the Head of the Civil Service, Pro-Chancellors of federal universities, the Director-General of the Budget Office, the Accountant-General of the Federation, and the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC).
“In line with the provisions of the Labour Laws of the Federation, the Federal Government reiterates its position on the enforcement of the ‘No Work, No Pay’ policy in respect of any employee who fails to discharge his or her official duties during the period of strike action,” the circular stated.
Immediate Actions Required
Dr. Alausa instructed vice-chancellors to:
- Conduct roll calls and physical headcounts of academic staff.
- Submit detailed reports indicating staff present and performing duties versus those absent due to the strike.
- Suspend salaries for lecturers failing to perform official responsibilities during the strike period.
The ministry clarified that members of the Congress of University Academics (CONUA) and the National Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA), who are not part of the strike, should not be penalized.
The NUC has been tasked with monitoring compliance and submitting a consolidated report to the ministry within seven days.
“Please treat this matter with utmost urgency and a deep sense of responsibility in national interest,” Dr. Alausa added.
ASUU Strike Context
ASUU declared a total and comprehensive warning strike, effective Monday, October 13, 2025. The union’s demands include:
- Completion of the renegotiated 2009 FGN-ASUU agreement.
- Release of withheld salaries and arrears.
- Funding for revitalisation of public universities.
- An end to alleged victimisation of union members in some institutions.
The strike continues to disrupt academic activities in universities nationwide, raising concerns about delayed academic calendars and student welfare.
Ifeoluwa Okonkwo ✔
Ifeoluwa Okonkwo is a dedicated News Content Editor at Naija247news, bringing over five years of experience in news writing and editorial work. A graduate of the University of Abia State, Ifeoluwa specializes in curating and refining impactful news stories that resonate with readers. Her expertise lies in delivering accurate, timely, and engaging content across diverse topics, contributing to the platform’s reputation for excellence in journalism. Through her leadership, she ensures high editorial standards and an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity.
View Archive →
