The Nigerian Senate has waded into the ongoing dispute between the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the Federal Government, following the union’s declaration of a two-week warning strike.

The intervention was confirmed by Senator Muntari Dandutse, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund, after a closed-door meeting with ASUU representatives at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja, on Friday.

Dandutse said the committee was deeply concerned about the industrial action and assured that lawmakers would handle ASUU’s grievances with urgency and seriousness.

“We recognise the crucial role our universities play in shaping Nigeria’s future. The Senate is committed to ensuring they get the necessary support to function effectively,” he said.

The lawmaker emphasized that while the Senate does not support strikes or threats of industrial action, it remains focused on ensuring accountability and long-term solutions to Nigeria’s recurring university crises.

“This issue has dragged on for too long. We must address it holistically so that it doesn’t resurface again. We owe that much to our students, our educators, and the nation,” Dandutse added.

He revealed that the committee had resolved to communicate its position to the Federal Ministry of Education and the National Universities Commission (NUC), with a view to initiating negotiations to resolve the standoff.

The committee also agreed to meet with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to address the ongoing land dispute involving the University of Abuja, which ASUU claims was unlawfully taken over.

“We will study other related issues and take appropriate steps to ensure an amicable resolution,” Dandutse noted.

ASUU Confirms Two-Week Warning Strike

Earlier, ASUU President, Professor Christopher Piwuna, confirmed that the union had officially commenced a two-week warning strike, describing it as a necessary step after years of unfulfilled promises by the government.

“Unfortunately, the circumstances that brought us here didn’t start with this administration. Our core concern remains sustainable funding for tertiary education, improved conditions of service, university autonomy, and academic freedom,” Piwuna said.

He also appealed to the Senate to intervene in the University of Abuja land dispute, which he said the FCT Minister had “illegally revoked” despite several appeals.

“The land belongs to the university. It’s critical to our future development, and we hope this National Assembly will help ensure justice,” he added.

Senate Leadership Pledges Swift Resolution

Speaking after the meeting, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau reaffirmed the Senate’s determination to mediate a quick and lasting solution to prevent further disruption in the education sector.

“Education is the foundation of any progressive society. We cannot afford to keep our young people at home. The Senate is fully committed to resolving this impasse as soon as possible,” Barau stated.

He expressed confidence that President Bola Tinubu was already working to address the root causes of the crisis and restore stability to the university system.

“The President is deeply concerned about the situation and is working round the clock to find a permanent solution,” he added.

Senate Steps In As ASUU, FG Face-Off Deepens Over Two-Week Strike

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