The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), on Thursday, gave an indication that the union will suspend its prolonged strike very soon, as its President, Prof Biodun Ogunyemi, declared that the varsity lecturers are ready to go back to school.
The ASUU President gave the hint even as the Federal Government, through the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, assured it would meet the union demands within time frame it stipulated.
Prof Ogunyemi, who was speaking at a meeting between the Federal Government, led by the Labour Minister and ASUU leadership, led by the President, said their members are willing to resume because it is a matter of national interest.
He points out that their members also have their children at home, like all other parents who have their children at home due to the prolonged strike.
The ASUU president said: “Our members are ready and willing to go to class because it is a matter of national interest. Just like every other person’s child is at home, our member’s children are also at home.”
Prof Ogunyemi commended the Senate President and the Minister of Labour and Employment, the Accountant General of the Federation, among others for making it possible for them to discuss on the issues.
He pointed out that though, ASUU delegation came with an open mind to the meeting, its members out there expect much from the meeting.
Bibian Anekwe News reported that the Federal Government agreed to release N20 billion for revitalisation of public universities until Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, makes a request for additional funding.
The government also agreed to release N30 billion as Earned Academic Allowance to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to call off their strike. The money would be paid in tranches between May 2021 and February 2022.
