The Minister of Education, Dr. Morufu Alausa, has called on Nigerian labor unions in the education sector, including ASUU and SSANU, to prioritize dialogue and student welfare over strike actions as a means of addressing grievances.
Speaking at the 359th Quadrennial National Delegates Conference of SSANU in Abuja, Dr. Alausa emphasized that industrial action should not be the unions’ first approach to seeking government attention. He acknowledged the unions’ frustrations with past unfulfilled agreements but reassured them that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to fulfilling its promises to the education sector.
“President Bola Tinubu is committed to making tough, long-term decisions for Nigeria’s improvement,” Dr. Alausa stated. He reminded union members of Tinubu’s track record and asked them to give the government “time and the benefit of the doubt.”
The Minister also outlined the financial challenges limiting the government’s ability to meet union demands, citing the previous administration’s high spending on subsidies and currency support that drained national resources.
Additionally, former Nigeria Labour Congress president Ayuba Wabba highlighted the importance of honoring collective bargaining agreements to reduce strike actions, noting the high financial and social costs of strikes on Nigeria’s economy.
In closing, Dr. Alausa appealed for mutual respect and a collaborative approach, assuring unions that a committee led by respected figures has been established to negotiate with them, and that efforts are underway to improve conditions and fulfill withheld allowances for SSANU members.
