The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has commenced mobilisation for a nationwide strike following the Federal Government’s continued silence over its long-standing demands.

In a letter dated October 5, 2025, and signed by its president, Prof. Chris Piwuna, the union reaffirmed its decision to shut down universities across the country, citing government inaction despite being served a formal strike notice.

According to the letter, the National Executive Council (NEC) of ASUU had, during an emergency meeting held on September 29, 2025, reviewed the outcome of a referendum conducted across its branches and resolved to issue a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government.

If the government fails to meet its demands, ASUU said it will embark on a two-week warning strike, which may escalate into a total and indefinite strike.

Prof. Piwuna stated:

“The NEC resolved to give the government a fourteen-day ultimatum to resolve the issues contained in the negotiated document transmitted since February 2025. If the government fails to act, the union will proceed on a two-week warning strike at the expiration of the ultimatum.”

He lamented that, one week after the ultimatum began, no meaningful progress had been made by the government to address the concerns raised by the union.

ASUU’s demands include the signing and implementation of the renegotiated 2009 Agreement, improved funding for public universities, and better working conditions for lecturers.

Piwuna urged members to remain united and take instructions only from recognised union leadership, warning against misinformation.

“We are strong when we organise, but weakened when we agonise. The days ahead call for unity of purpose. No one should be left out of the struggle for our welfare and the repositioning of the Nigerian University System,” he added.

This new development comes as tensions continue to rise across university campuses, with many students and staff expressing concern over another possible shutdown of academic activities.