FG gives fresh update on ASUU strikes

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the education sector, describing it as one of the strongest pillars of the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

The Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, stated this on Friday at the State House, Abuja, when the leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) paid him a courtesy visit.

Gbajabiamila urged student leaders across the country to complement government’s efforts by campaigning against social vices on campuses, particularly drug abuse, cultism and prostitution. He noted that tertiary institutions are not only centres of academic learning but also places where character is built.

“I want to let you know that education is one of the pillars of this administration. We believe in the youths — the students — your energy and capacity, and we don’t pay lip service to matters like this,” he said.

He added that the Federal Government has constituted a special committee to address growing concerns about social vices in secondary and tertiary institutions nationwide.

The Chief of Staff also commended the leadership of NANS for constructive engagement with government and encouraged the association to promote moral reorientation among students.

Speaking further, Gbajabiamila disclosed that sustained dialogue between the government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has helped stabilise the university system, noting that Nigeria is approaching three years without a nationwide university strike.

He recalled his previous involvement in negotiations with the union during his tenure as Speaker of the House of Representatives, when repeated strikes forced many students to spend additional academic years in school.

He also highlighted the impact of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, saying the student loan initiative is already assisting indigent students to remain in school.

Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement, Sunday Asefon, reiterated the Presidency’s commitment to continuous engagement with students and a stable academic calendar.

According to him, recent interventions by the administration have helped restore predictability in university academic schedules after years of disruptions caused by disputes between the government and ASUU.

In his remarks, NANS President, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, commended President Tinubu for what he described as unprecedented support for Nigerian students.

He said government policies had improved stability in tertiary institutions, allowing many four-year courses to be completed as scheduled. Oladoja added that more than 900,000 students had benefited from the student loan scheme.

The student leader also cited security measures on campuses, including the approval of perimeter fencing for vulnerable institutions, following reported hostel incursions in some schools.

While pledging continued support for government initiatives, he appealed for palliatives for students during the fasting season and increased job opportunities for young graduates. He also disclosed plans by the association to hold a major student gathering in Abuja to publicly endorse the President’s policies.