FG Vows to end ASUU Strikes Permanently, Assures Stable Academic Calendar

The Federal Government of Nigeria has assured citizens that the era of prolonged strikes by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and other unions in the education sector will soon be a thing of the past.

Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, made this known during the Scientific Conference and Induction Ceremony of the Academy of Medical Sciences of Nigeria (AMSN), which took place over the weekend in Lagos.

Dr. Alausa, who was among 15 distinguished professionals newly inducted as Fellows of the Academy, emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is fully committed to ensuring a stable and uninterrupted academic calendar across all educational levels in the country.

“In ASUU’s history, the union has been on strike for roughly 54 months. That is not something to be proud of,” the minister said. “President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is focused on ending strikes in our universities. He does not want to see students staying at home when they should be in classrooms.”

According to Alausa, the President has placed education reform at the center of his agenda. He highlighted several initiatives already underway — including the student loan scheme, restructuring of TETFund, and the upcoming Education Research Fund — all designed to strengthen the sector and improve the global competitiveness of Nigerian graduates.

He added that President Tinubu views human capital development as a vital pillar for national growth and economic transformation. The minister assured Nigerians that the Federal Government will continue to work closely with ASUU and other unions to sustain industrial peace in the education sector.

“The President allows me direct access to discuss university-related matters with him,” Alausa noted. “His vision is for our higher institutions to become problem-solving hubs, producing graduates capable of excelling anywhere in the world.”

Dr. Alausa also expressed appreciation to the Academy of Medical Sciences of Nigeria for recognizing him as a Fellow, describing it as a rare honor that came after nearly a year of rigorous evaluation. He pledged to strengthen collaboration between the Ministry of Education and professional medical bodies to promote research and innovation in the country.

Representing Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, praised the Academy for its continuous efforts in advancing excellence and mentorship in the medical field. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure, expanding access to quality services, and enhancing its cancer screening and treatment programs.

Earlier, AMSN President Emeritus, Prof. Osato Giwa-Osagie, restated the Academy’s mission to drive medical research, education, and health development in Nigeria.

Other newly inducted Fellows include Prof. Taiwo Lawal (University of Ibadan), Prof. Clement Azodo (University of Benin), Prof. Titilope Adeyemo (University of Lagos), Prof. Kikelomo Kolawole (OAU, Ile-Ife), Prof. Emmanuel Otolorin, Prof. Olalekan Ayo-Yusuf, Prof. Chinedum Babalola, and Prof. Ganiyu Arinola, among others.

Since its establishment six years ago, the Academy of Medical Sciences of Nigeria has grown to include over 100 Fellows who have made remarkable contributions to medical research, education, and public health in the country.