ASUU Gives FG Four-Day Ultimatum Over New Salary Implementation

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a four-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding the immediate implementation and payment of the newly approved salary structure for university lecturers.

The union’s president, Professor Christopher Piwuna, made this known during a public lecture, stressing that the government must act swiftly or face a strong response from the union.

According to ASUU, the new salary arrangement was agreed upon in December 2025, with implementation expected to commence in January 2026. However, the union lamented that despite the agreement, the Federal Government has yet to fully fulfill its obligations.

Piwuna expressed concern over what he described as the government’s persistent failure to honour agreements, noting that such delays have historically triggered industrial actions within the nation’s university system. He warned that the current situation could lead to renewed disruptions if urgent steps are not taken.

The ultimatum, which took effect immediately, adds to growing pressure on the Federal Government amid broader labour concerns across various sectors. ASUU maintained that prompt implementation of the salary structure is critical to restoring trust and ensuring stability in the education sector.

The union further reiterated its commitment to protecting the welfare of its members, emphasizing that it will not hesitate to take necessary actions should the government fail to meet its demands within the stipulated timeframe.

Observers say the development could once again test the fragile relationship between ASUU and the Federal Government, raising concerns over the possibility of another strike in Nigeria’s public universities if the issue remains unresolved.