FG And ASUU Sign, Unveil New Agreement To Enhance Tertiary Education

The Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have signed a fresh agreement aimed at strengthening the quality of university education and ensuring stability.

This new agreement replaces the 2009 pact, which previously led to multiple strikes over unresolved issues.

The signing and unveiling took place on Wednesday at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Conference Hall in Maitama, Abuja.

The ceremony was attended by key dignitaries, including the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad.

At the event, ASUU President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, stated that despite the union’s past experiences with the Federal Government, there is hope that this time will be different.

He expressed the union’s expectation that there will be no need to issue strike threats before the government implements the agreement.

“We are optimistic that the government will implement this agreement in totality, but pessimism still exists because of our history,” Prof. Piwuna said.

“It is our belief that Dr. Tunji Alausa will be different, and that our union will not need to issue a strike threat before any part of this agreement is implemented. As you always say, you are open and accessible; ASUU is also open and accessible.”

Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, described the agreement as a major turning point in Nigeria’s tertiary education system.

He credited the success to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to quality education and maintaining an uninterrupted academic calendar for students across the country.

“This occasion represents far more than the presentation of a document; it symbolises renewed trust, restored confidence, and a decisive turning point in the history of Nigeria’s tertiary education system,” Alausa said.

“Today’s agreement is a clear and unprecedented demonstration of the commitment of His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to quality education and an uninterrupted academic calendar for all Nigerian students in our tertiary institutions.”