ASUU begins warning strike as ultimatum to FG expires; The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has announced plans to embark on a two-week comprehensive nationwide strike beginning Monday, October 13, 2025, following the expiration of its ultimatum to the Federal Government.
The announcement was made by ASUU President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, during a press briefing held on Sunday at the University of Abuja. He stated that the decision was reached after the government failed to meet the union’s long-standing demands despite repeated engagements and warnings.
Background to the Strike
Two weeks prior, ASUU’s National Executive Council (NEC) and its various chapters had issued a final ultimatum to the government, warning that a strike would be unavoidable if immediate action was not taken to address the union’s grievances. However, one week into the ultimatum, the union reported that there had been no meaningful dialogue or progress from the government’s side.
Prof. Piwuna expressed disappointment over the government’s inaction, stating:
“It is regrettable to note that nothing significant has happened to change the position of NEC since we last briefed the press. Consequently, all branches of ASUU are hereby directed to withdraw their services with effect from midnight on Monday, 13 October 2025.”
Nature and Duration of the Strike
The ASUU President emphasized that the strike would be “total and comprehensive,” reaffirming the union’s determination to pursue its resolutions until the Federal Government addresses its core demands.
Historical Context
This development marks ASUU’s first nationwide strike since 2022, and the first under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The last major strike, which took place in 2022, lasted for eight months before it was suspended following an order from the Industrial Court, obtained by then Minister of Labour, Dr. Chris Ngige.
