Members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) on Tuesday staged coordinated nationwide protests and embarked on a one-day warning strike, rejecting the Federal Government’s proposed Tertiary Institution Staff Support Fund (TISSF) loan scheme while demanding payment of long-overdue entitlements.
Lecturers Denounce Loan Scheme as a “Poison Chalice”
At the University of Jos, ASUU branch chairperson Joseph Molwus described the loan scheme as a “poison chalice,” insisting that lecturers do not need loans but their legitimate entitlements: withheld salaries, earned academic allowances, promotion arrears, revitalization funds, wage award arrears, and unremitted third-party deductions.
Protests and Strike Disrupt Activities Nationwide
The protests were accompanied by a one-day warning strike, which disrupted academic activities across major universities.
- University of Lagos (UNILAG): Students preparing for scheduled examinations were left frustrated as exams were abruptly cancelled and rescheduled to a later date due to the strike. Many expressed dissatisfaction, noting that the disruptions compounded academic stress and uncertainty.
- Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB): ASUU members staged peaceful marches, rejecting the loan scheme and demanding improved pay structures.
- University of Abuja: Lecturers highlighted that they have been stuck on the same salary structure since 2009 despite repeated promises for reviews, while outstanding arrears remain unpaid.
- Other institutions, including University of Benin, Federal University Gusau, and Federal University Dutse, also joined the coordinated action, calling for the full implementation of the 2009 FG–ASUU agreement.
Students React with Anger and Frustration
Students at UNILAG, who had prepared extensively for examinations, voiced deep dissatisfaction over the disruption. Some complained about wasted time and resources, while others expressed fear that frequent interruptions could extend the academic calendar yet again.
A 300-level student lamented: “We’ve been struggling to catch up from the last disruptions, and now our exams are pushed forward without notice. It feels like our future is on hold every time ASUU and the government clash.”
Another student described the situation as “psychologically draining,” stressing that government and lecturers should resolve disputes without punishing students.
Ibadan Chapter Warns of Looming Crisis
ASUU’s zonal coordinator, Professor Biodun Olaniran, accused the government of employing “delay tactics” and warned that the loan scheme was a diversion from fulfilling obligations. He underscored the urgency of addressing chronic underfunding, poor infrastructure, and unimplemented agreements.
Strike Threat Looms
ASUU leaders stressed that the one-day warning strike was a signal of their dwindling patience. They warned that unless urgent steps are taken, a full-scale indefinite strike could follow—plunging Nigeria’s higher education system into another prolonged shutdown.
At a Glance
| Key Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Outstanding Arrears | 3½ months’ withheld salaries, promotion arrears, earned allowances, revitalization funds, wage awards, and third-party contributions |
| Loan Scheme Rejection | ASUU labels the TISSF loan as oppressive and demeaning |
| One-Day Strike | Declared nationwide on August 26, 2025 |
| Disruption at UNILAG | Exams cancelled and rescheduled; students voice anger and frustration |
| Warning of Full Strike | ASUU says industrial peace may collapse if demands are ignored |
