By Nsan Neji
ABUJA (CONVERSEER) – The National Assembly has waded into the ongoing industrial dispute between the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the Federal Government, as tension mounts over the union’s two-week warning strike that has paralysed academic activities across the country.
During Tuesday’s plenary, the House of Representatives urged both parties to immediately return to the negotiation table to avert a prolonged crisis in the education sector. This followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Oluwaseun Whinghan, who represents Badagry Federal Constituency of Lagos State.
Presenting the motion, Whinghan warned that short warning strikes by ASUU have historically led to longer industrial actions with severe consequences for students and the education system.
“The House notes that although ASUU has described the strike as a warning, previous experiences show that these actions often degenerate into extended work stoppages,” he said.
He underscored the strategic role of higher education in national development, stressing that any disruption undermines Nigeria’s competitiveness, innovation, and human-capital growth.
“We are aware that the Nigerian university system remains central to national development, innovation, and human-capital growth, and that any disruption weakens the country’s competitiveness, scientific advancement, and youth productivity,” Whinghan stated.
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He also cited Section 18 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which recognises education as a fundamental tool for social and technological advancement. He reminded both the Federal Government and university unions of their shared responsibility to safeguard the continuity and quality of education.
Whinghan expressed concern that the prolonged disagreements between the government and lecturers could have long-term consequences for the nation’s stability and development. He called for renewed dialogue based on mutual respect, transparency, and good faith, with the legislature acting as a neutral mediator.
After deliberation, the House unanimously adopted the motion. It mandated its Committees on University Education and Labour, Employment, and Productivity to immediately intervene in the dispute to find a lasting solution.
Lawmakers further recommended the creation of a permanent joint consultative platform between the government and recognised university unions to foster consistent engagement and reduce recurring strikes.
An ad-hoc committee, chaired by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, will lead the mediation process to resolve the dispute and ensure that lecturers return to the classrooms without further delay.
The House also urged both the Federal Government and ASUU to exercise restraint, embrace dialogue, and prioritise the interests of students and national development.
