The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has officially suspended its nationwide two-week warning strike after ten days. The decision was announced on Wednesday, 22 October 2025, in a press briefing in Abuja by the union’s president, Chris Piwuna.
Why the strike was suspended
The union’s National Executive Council (NEC) met overnight (21-22 October) and concluded that although their objectives are not yet fully met, “useful engagements” have taken place between ASUU and the Federal Government of Nigeria
ASUU acknowledged interventions by key stakeholders — including students, parents, and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) — which played a role in the decision to suspend the strike.
The union has given the government a one-month window to conclude the renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/ASUU agreement and to tackle other outstanding welfare and funding issues.
Key demands still on the table
ASUU’s demands remain largely unresolved. They include:
The finalisation and signing of the renegotiated 2009 agreement between ASUU and the Federal Government.
Payment of withheld salaries (up to three and a half months in some cases) and promotion arrears spanning multiple years.
Sustainable funding and revitalisation of public universities, including ensuring university autonomy and ending alleged victimisation of lecturers at certain institutions.
What it means now
With the strike suspended, academic activities in public universities are expected to resume. However, this is conditional on the government meeting its commitments within the set timeframe.
ASUU retains the right to resume the strike without further notice if the government fails to deliver within the one-month period.
All parties — government, universities, students, and the union — now have a window to restore stability to the academic calendar. The success depends on timely government action and follow-through.
Implications for students & staff
Students: There’s likely relief as disruption is paused, but uncertainty remains until demands are fully addressed.
University staff: They have been given some hope via renewed negotiations, but must monitor progress closely.
Government: The one-month window is essentially a test of credibility and ability to deliver on long-standing promises.