The House of Representatives has established a special committee, chaired by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, to mediate the ongoing industrial conflict between the federal government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
This committee’s primary role is to broker a resolution that is acceptable to both parties involved in the dispute.
The formation of this committee came after the House adopted a motion of urgent public importance, introduced by Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan (APC, Lagos) during yesterday’s plenary session.
Whingan highlighted concerns regarding ASUU’s announcement of a two-week warning strike, which centers on unresolved issues from previous agreements with the federal government. Key points of contention include revitalization funding, earned academic allowances, salary structures, and the autonomy of universities.
He noted that although the strike is labeled as a warning, such actions have historically escalated into extended shutdowns, causing significant disruptions to academic schedules, hindering research activities, and increasing frustration among students, parents, and faculty members.
The legislator emphasized the pivotal role Nigerian universities play in national progress, innovation, and the development of human capital. He warned that interruptions in university operations undermine the country’s economic strength, scientific progress, and the productivity of its youth.
He stated, “Recognizing that education is constitutionally enshrined under Section 18 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) as a vital catalyst for social and technological advancement, it is imperative that both the federal government and university unions uphold their shared responsibility to maintain the continuity and quality of education.”
“Acknowledging that frequent strikes in the higher education sector have resulted in student dropouts, intellectual migration, and diminished public trust, thereby posing risks to national stability and the achievement of Nigeria’s long-term development objectives,” he added.
“Believing that the ongoing deadlock between ASUU and the Federal Government demands renewed, respectful, transparent, and sincere dialogue, with the Legislature acting as an impartial mediator to protect the interests of students and the nation,” Whingan concluded.
Following the motion’s approval, the House called on both parties to show restraint, engage in constructive discussions, and place the welfare of students and the nation’s development above all other concerns.
