President Bola Tinubu has urged members of Nigeria’s university staff to prioritize peaceful negotiations over impending strikes. Speaking at the grand finale of the 39th convocation of the University of Ilorin, he emphasized the necessity for dialogue to ensure that universities remain open and operational. “My government is committed to an uninterrupted academic calendar,” he stated, highlighting the administration’s dedication to fostering a stable educational environment.
The call comes as the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities (NASU), and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) prepare for potential strikes. These unions are demanding the payment of withheld salaries from the 2022 strike and the implementation of the 2009 agreement. Tinubu expressed hope that the unions would “give peace a chance” and engage in constructive conversations to resolve their grievances.
In his address, delivered by Minister of State for Education Dr. Yusuf Sununu, Tinubu acknowledged the ongoing challenges facing the educational sector. “Gone are the days when universities would be closed down over issues that could be resolved through constructive engagements,” he remarked. He insisted that the country must avoid a return to such disruptions, stating, “No one gains anything from the closure of institutions of learning.”
Tinubu reassured the audience that the Federal Government is fulfilling its commitments. “It was in this regard that the 2009 Re-negotiation Committee was inaugurated to address the concerns of university-based associations and unions,” he explained. He also mentioned that four months of withheld salaries for academic staff have been paid, and non-teaching staff will soon receive their owed salaries.
Additionally, Tinubu discussed the removal of university staff salaries from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), responding to the trade unions’ concerns. “This is purposely done to show the magnanimity of the present administration,” he stated, emphasizing the government’s willingness to adapt to the needs of university staff.
The President also introduced the Nigerian Education Loans Fund (NELFUND), which aims to provide financial support for students. “Students of the University of Ilorin are not left out among the beneficiaries of this loan scheme,” he said, encouraging students to take advantage of this opportunity.
In closing, Tinubu urged graduates to contribute positively to society by tackling the economic and security challenges facing Nigeria. His message was echoed by the Pro-Chancellor of the university, Abiodun Aluko, and Vice-Chancellor Prof. Wahab Egbewole, both of whom stressed the importance of innovation and continuous learning for the graduates.
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