Here’s an up-to-date look at the university strike situation in Nigeria — what’s happening now, what’s been said, and what it means for students.

What’s Going On Right Now

• The non-academic staff unions in Nigerian universities — SSANU and NASU — recently declared an indefinite nationwide strike, citing months of withheld salaries.

• In response, the Federal Government has publicly urged ASUU (the academic staff union) to shelve any strike action and return to dialogue, claiming it has made a “comprehensive offer” addressing many of their demands. (State House Abuja)

• Despite that, ASUU rejected the government’s 35% salary increase proposal, insisting it is inadequate and diverges from previously agreed benchmarks (e.g. the Briggs report). (The Sun Nigeria)

• The government has also warned that the “No Work, No Pay” principle will be enforced if lecturers strike. (State House Abuja)

So far, the standoff is intensifying — many university campuses remain inactive, and students are again feeling the impact.

What It Means for Students

• Academic activities across many public universities remain suspended. Most lectures, exams, lab sessions, and even administrative functions are stalled.

• Delays in graduation, academic calendars, and course progression are inevitable. Students may lose semesters or have to wait long before resumes.

• Financial pressure mounts. Many students have already paid fees, rented accommodation, or made life plans based on normal schedules.

• The uncertainty is demoralizing. Doubts around when things will resume make it hard for students to plan — whether for internships, work, or further education abroad.

Why the Dispute Continues

• Outstanding salaries remain a major bone of contention. Many workers claim that the government owes them multiple months of pay.

• Conditions of service and proper implementation of previously negotiated agreements (like the Nimi Briggs report) are still unfulfilled.

• Funding and infrastructure problems: Some parts of the country argue that universities lack the facilities or recurrent funds to function properly even if a strike is suspended.

• Autonomy issues: ASUU often pushes for greater institutional autonomy — the ability of universities to manage their internal affairs, finances, and staffing without excessive government interference.

What You Can Do (as a Student)

• Stay informed. Follow official union communications (ASUU, SSANU, NASU) and university management statements.

• Engage student unions. Your faculty or departmental student body may be organizing updates, petitions, or negotiations.

• Document your losses. Keep records of expenses (rent, fees, etc.). If the government or universities decide on compensation later, these will matter.

• Network with peers in other universities. Sometimes universities resume at different times; staying connected helps share insights.

• Be patient but persistent. Pressure through peaceful advocacy, social media, and appeals can influence resolution speed.

Yes, this is frustrating. Yes, your academic dreams are being tested. But many previous strikes have ended with agreements — not perfectly, but enough for campuses to reopen, for schedules to resume, and for academic life to continue.

What this moment requires is strategy, unity, and resilience. Not just from unions or the government, but from students themselves. When your voice, concerns, and rights are clear and organized, they are harder to ignore.

The path forward is uncertain, but it’s not closed. Your future is still possible. Stay informed, stay strong, and believe that a fair resolution can come — one that puts education back in motion, for you and for many others.