The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has firmly stood its ground, rejecting the N35,000 wage award and instead, pressing for negotiated salaries for its members under the Tinubu-led administration. This resolute stance was articulated by ASUU National President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, during the inauguration of the University of Ibadan (UI) branch's secretariat in Ibadan. Osodeke emphasized that the union's position is centered on the necessity of negotiating wages rather than accepting unilateral awards, highlighting the importance of member involvement in determining their remuneration.
Osodeke reiterated ASUU's stance on the matter, underscoring the need for a renegotiation of existing agreements and the resolution of outstanding issues with the Federal Government, including the payment of withheld salaries and the release of the Needs Assessment Funds. Additionally, he criticized the reliance on external consultants for projects in Nigeria, advocating for the utilization of local expertise, particularly within Nigerian universities.
In his remarks, Vice-Chancellor of UI, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, expressed appreciation for ASUU's efforts in establishing the secretariat, envisioning it as a hub for intellectual discourse and collaboration among union members. The UI ASUU Chairman, Prof. Ayo Akinwole, highlighted the self-sufficiency of the secretariat's construction, achieved without external donations.
The inauguration event also featured a session titled "Challenging NeoLiberal Narrative in Nigeria’s Education Sector: ASUU’s 2022 Strike and Matters Arising," addressing the complexities of neoliberalism's impact on education in Nigeria. Prof. Omotoye Olorode of the Odoje Biodiversity Centre, Ogbomoso, emphasized ASUU's role in advocating for a free, educated, and healthy citizenry, positioning the union's struggles as essential for national development.
The newly inaugurated ASUU building, situated at Olajuwon Olayide Extension, Ajibode, University of Ibadan, boasts a secretariat building, scholars’ chalets, and other modern amenities, signaling ASUU's commitment to enhancing academic and research infrastructure within Nigerian universities.