ASUU ORDERS NATIONWIDE UNIVERSITY SHUTDOWN OVER UNPAID SALARIES

Abuja, July 8, 2025

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has directed its members to commence an indefinite nationwide strike, halting academic activities across Nigeria’s public universities due to the non-payment of June 2025 salaries. The decision, announced by ASUU National President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, follows the union’s “No Pay, No Work” policy, triggered by delays exceeding three days into the new month.

ASUU branches at the University of Jos, University of Abuja, and Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University in Bauchi have already suspended lectures, with other institutions expected to follow. Prof. Piwuna criticized the Federal Government’s “nonchalant attitude” and blamed the Office of the Accountant General for persistent delays since the payroll system switched from IPPIS to GIFMIS. “Lecturers are struggling with inadequate pay, and these delays are deliberate,” he stated.

The union also highlighted an outstanding N10 billion balance from the N50 billion Earned Academic Allowance (EAA), with only N40 billion disbursed. Despite engagements with the Minister of Education and other officials, ASUU reports no progress. The strike, which risks prolonged disruption to academic calendars, will continue until salaries and outstanding allowances are paid, the union warned.

Students and parents expressed frustration, with many fearing another extended academic shutdown. The Federal Government has yet to respond officially to the strike action.