The Federal Government has officially reestablished and launched the Mahmud Yayale Ahmed Federal Government Tertiary Institutions Expanded Negotiation Committee, aiming to fast-track ongoing talks with both academic and non-academic unions representing universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education nationwide.
This development follows the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) initiating full mobilisation of its members in anticipation of a potential nationwide warning strike, as their 14-day ultimatum approaches expiration this week.
In parallel, other unions such as the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) have also threatened to commence an indefinite strike, citing unresolved issues including unpaid salaries, outstanding arrears, and other unmet demands.
On Tuesday morning, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, announced that the newly formed committee is designed to unify all negotiation efforts within a single, coordinated framework that preserves institutional knowledge and ensures inclusivity across the sector.
A press release from Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, emphasized the government’s resolve to resolve persistent industrial disputes through continuous dialogue and mutual compromise.
The statement highlighted that the Minister of Labour and Employment, Mohammed Maigari Dingyadi, alongside the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmed, participated in a strategic meeting to tackle these pressing concerns.
Dr. Alausa clarified that, unlike previous disjointed negotiations, this expanded committee will engage all unions simultaneously to forge a holistic and enduring agreement.
“The committee’s composition has been meticulously selected to represent the entire education sector, ensuring comprehensive representation without exclusion,” he noted.
He further revealed that the committee is supported by a fully equipped and operational secretariat to facilitate its functions efficiently, with its inaugural session scheduled for Tuesday. The Minister called on all academic and non-academic unions to collaborate earnestly and respond promptly to the committee’s summons.
He also affirmed that President Bola Tinubu has extended unequivocal political support to the negotiation process, mandating that discussions be concluded swiftly, equitably, and with mutual respect.
Expressing appreciation for the unions’ patience and dedication, Dr. Alausa reiterated the government’s commitment to achieving a comprehensive resolution.
Chairman Alhaji Mahmud Yayale Ahmed, speaking on behalf of the committee, thanked the Federal Government for entrusting them with this vital national responsibility.
“We pledge to conduct this assignment with transparency, honesty, and inclusiveness. Our objective transcends mere negotiation; we aim to propose practical and sustainable solutions that will foster lasting peace within our tertiary institutions,” he affirmed.
The Ministry of Education, representing the Federal Government, reaffirmed its dedication to reinstating stability and confidence throughout the tertiary education sector.
“By fostering inclusive dialogue, equitable negotiation, and decisive leadership, we are committed to realizing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda-where every student remains in school, every educator is respected, and every institution flourishes in harmony and advancement,” the statement concluded.
