ASUU raises alarm over welfare challenges, threatens strike in Sokoto tertiary institutions
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has cautioned that academic activities in Sokoto State-owned higher institutions may be disrupted if urgent steps are not taken to address lingering welfare concerns affecting its members.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the union’s chapters at Sokoto State University and Shehu Shagari University of Education, lecturers decried what they described as prolonged neglect by relevant authorities despite several appeals for intervention.
The statement, jointly signed by the chairpersons of both branches, highlighted that unresolved welfare matters are beginning to undermine industrial stability within the institutions, warning that continued delay could negatively impact teaching, research, and overall academic productivity.
“These issues have lingered for too long despite several reminders, addressing them will sustain the harmonious working relationship and enhance productivity,” the union stated.
Among its key demands, ASUU called for the immediate enforcement of the 2025 agreement reached between the Federal Government and the union, particularly the payment of special allowances tied to teaching and research responsibilities.
It noted that implementation has already commenced in federal universities and urged the Sokoto State Government to align with the same standard.
The union also demanded the settlement of outstanding Earned Academic Allowances owed to lecturers for the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 academic sessions.
ASUU stressed that lecturers in state-owned institutions should not be excluded from nationally negotiated salary structures, warning that continued inaction could heighten dissatisfaction among staff and trigger industrial unrest.
The development reflects growing concerns within Nigeria’s higher education sector, where academic unions have increasingly pressed for improved funding, equitable remuneration, and adherence to agreements.
