By Isoken Oduware
With a historic breakthrough that caught many pundits napping, the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) on Wednesday formally signed a new agreement designed to strengthen Nigeria’s university education system and promote long-term harmony in the education sector.
Details of the development revealed that the agreement now replaces the disputed 2009 agreement, which has caused unending industrial disputes between the union and successive administrations.
The signing ceremony which was held at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Conference Hall in Maitama, Abuja, drew key stakeholders in the education sector, led by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, and top officials of ASUU.
According to the ASUU President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, the union is deeply pleased that the Federal Government is honouring the new agreement without the usual delays that often spark strikes.
“We are also very optimistic that the government will implement this agreement in totality. It is our belief that Dr. Tunji Alausa will be different, and that our union will not need to issue a strike threat before any part of this agreement is implemented.
“As you always say, you are open and accessible; ASUU is also open and accessible,” Prof. Piwuna said.
Speaking at the event, Alausa described the pact as a major milestone and a clear break from the past, noting that it signals a renewed commitment to stability in the tertiary education sector.
“This occasion symbolises renewed trust, restored confidence, and a decisive turning point in the history of Nigeria’s tertiary education system,” Alausa said. He added that the event is far more than the mere presentation of a document.
“This agreement reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s resolve to prioritise quality education and ensure uninterrupted academic calendars in public tertiary institutions. It is a clear and unprecedented demonstration of the commitment of His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to quality education and an uninterrupted academic calendar for all Nigerian students in our tertiary institutions,” the minister stated.
Many other participants at the event expressed optimism that the new agreement would finally put an end to the cycle of disputes and strikes that have disrupted academic activities in Nigerian universities for over a decade. They lauded the high level of sportsmanship displayed by both the FG and the ASUU during the many negotiations that led to the new deal.
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