University workers have rejected the proposed N35,000 wage award, expressing their preference to negotiate directly with President Bola Tinubu.
The announcement came from the president of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, during the inauguration of the University of Ibadan branch’s secretariat.
Osodeke stated that the wage award fell short of expectations and emphasized the need for negotiated salaries rather than predetermined awards.
He also addressed various pending industrial issues with the Federal Government, including the renegotiation of existing agreements, payment of withheld salaries, earned academic allowances, and the release of Needs Assessment Funds.
Commending the University of Ibadan ASUU branch for its newly constructed secretariat, Osodeke criticized the reliance on external or foreign consultants for projects in the country.
He advocated for the utilization of Nigerian experts and consultants, particularly from universities, by the government.
The inauguration ceremony, marked by intellectual discussions, collaboration, and solidarity among lecturers, included a session titled “Challenging Neo-Liberal Narrative in Nigeria’s Education Sector: ASUU’s 2022 Strike and Matters Arising.” Prof. Ayo Akinwole, the UI ASUU Chairman, highlighted the complexity of neo-liberalism’s impact on education and stressed the importance of continued relevance in the nation’s pursuit of self-reliance and independence.
Speaking on the theme, Prof. Omotoye Olorode, a Professor of Botany at the Odoje Biodiversity Centre, Ogbomoso, emphasized ASUU’s struggles as essential for building a nation where every citizen enjoys freedom, education, adequate nutrition, and good health.
The newly constructed ASUU building at Olajuwon Olayide Extension, Ajibode, University of Ibadan, boasts a secretariat building, scholars’ chalets, and modern facilities. The project was completed without external donations, thanks to the support of union members.
