Nigeria’s federal government says strikes in public tertiary institutions are a thing of the past, assuring students and parents that universities and polytechnics will remain open without disruption.
Education Minister Tunji Alausa gave the assurance Wednesday at an event in Lagos, saying the government has resolved longstanding disputes with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and is close to finalizing a deal with non-academic staff.
“Our tertiary institutions will remain open for all academic sessions. Please don’t worry about strikes,” Alausa said.
The government and ASUU signed an agreement on Jan. 14, 2026, that includes a 40% salary increase for academic staff, improved pensions and commitments to increased funding for universities.
Alausa dismissed recent reports of a possible strike by lecturers as false, saying all major issues had been addressed after years of disputes between the government and the union.
He said implementation of the salary increase has already begun in most institutions, with about 90% to 95% of universities paying the new wages despite delays in the passage of the 2026 budget.
The minister also said talks with the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) are nearing completion, with an agreement expected to be signed in the coming weeks.
“We have drafted that agreement, and it will be signed soon,” he said. “Our commitment is to ensure all staff benefit and that students’ education continues uninterrupted.”
University strikes have been a recurring issue in Nigeria for decades, often disrupting academic calendars and delaying graduations.
