Title: ASUU dissatisfied with partial release of teachers’ salaries: An alarming situation!
The ASUU (Academic Staff Union of Universities) recently held a press conference in Abuja, during which Mr. Salahu Mohammed Lawal, Abuja Zonal Coordinator, announced that only two months out of the eight withheld salaries have been returned . This partial salary release follows President Bola Tinubu’s approval for the restitution of four months’ salaries in October 2023.
The withholding of salaries dates back to an eight-month strike by university unions in 2022, in response to the “No work, no pay” policy implemented by the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Despite this measure, ASUU expresses its deep dissatisfaction with these partial releases. Lawal called the payment of two months’ salary “far below the union’s expectations” and stressed that it greatly weakened members’ morale and the union’s confidence in government promises.
He calls on all stakeholders involved to rectify the situation and honor their commitments regarding the withheld salaries. Lawal also urged the Federal Government to promptly conclude, sign and implement the Professor Nimi Briggs Agreement Renegotiation Committee, stressing the importance of settling pending compensation and arrears.
Furthermore, ASUU highlights the urgency for government to deliver on its promises, including payment of all withheld salaries, promotion arrears and earned academic allowances.
It is crucial that all parties involved come together to resolve this situation and maintain a healthy and stable higher education environment in Nigeria.
In conclusion, ASUU calls for immediate action to achieve a satisfactory resolution of this situation, emphasizing the critical importance of salaries and benefits to the well-being of teachers and the quality of education offered in the country.