ASUU rejects FG’s loan plan for lecturers, makes major demand

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has dismissed the Federal Government’s newly launched loan scheme for tertiary institution employees, insisting that the administration should instead fulfill its long-standing obligations to the union.

Speaking at a press briefing in Jos on Thursday, ASUU National President, Prof. Christopher Piwuna, described the Tertiary Institutions Staff Support Fund as a “poisoned chalice,” warning members to avoid it.

“Our members do not lack where to find loans; indeed, they are already deep in debt from such loans. What we need now is for government to sign our renegotiated agreement, which will improve our purchasing power and decrease our reliance on debts from cooperative societies,” Piwuna said.

Two weeks ago, the government unveiled the loan initiative to support both academic and non-academic staff in higher institutions. According to Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa, the scheme was designed to address welfare and professional development needs within the sector.

But ASUU insists the priority should be the full implementation of the 2009 agreement, which covers issues such as conditions of service, university autonomy, academic freedom, improved funding for universities, and a review of laws regulating JAMB and NUC.

Piwuna noted that despite the submission of the Alhaji Yayale Ahmed Report in February 2025, the government had stalled renegotiation efforts. He cautioned that the union might resort to strike action if its demands remain unmet.

“Time is running out. We will no longer tolerate a situation where those who fought for the sustenance of the universities will be treated with such disdain,” he warned. “Government should use the money set aside for the loans to defray our withheld salaries.”

ASUU also criticised the government’s priorities, pointing out that lecturers are still owed three and a half months’ salaries. The union has scheduled rallies across university campuses next week to press home its demands.

“We cannot disregard one of the core principles of the organisation ‘CBA.’ We, therefore, wish to caution government to return to this principle in addressing the issues in our draft agreement,” Piwuna said.

The union’s National Executive Committee will review the outcome of a government meeting scheduled for August 28 before deciding its next line of action.

“We are determined to end the pronouncements by government claiming commitment to sound university education and fidelity to collective agreement. Trust has been destroyed by government, it is, therefore up to them to regain it to avert any strike,” the ASUU president added.