The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has rejected the proposed Tertiary Institutions Staff Support Fund (TISSF), describing it as a “poisoned chalice” and warning that a nationwide strike may be imminent if the Federal Government fails to address outstanding issues in the university system.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday at the University of Jos, ASUU President, Prof. Christopher Piwuna, said the scheme—designed as a loan package for all tertiary institution staff—would worsen the financial burdens of lecturers rather than provide relief.
“Our members do not lack where to find loans; indeed, they are already deep in debt. This loan will incapacitate cooperative societies and enslave our members. After deductions, nothing would be left for families. How can the government ask us to take loans to pay for our health and our children’s education?” Piwuna queried.
He accused the government of deliberately delaying the renegotiation of the 2009 ASUU-FGN Agreement, refusing to clear outstanding salary arrears, and failing to implement measures to revitalise public universities.
“Trust has been destroyed by government. It is, therefore, up to them to regain it to avert any strike,” he warned.
ASUU also expressed disappointment that the Federal Government has yet to act on the recommendations of the Alhaji Yayale Ahmed Report submitted in February 2025. According to the union, the continued neglect undermines collective bargaining principles under the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Convention, to which Nigeria is a signatory.
While acknowledging a planned government meeting on August 28, the union cautioned that time was running out. It said the draft agreement awaiting action covers critical issues such as conditions of service, university autonomy, academic freedom, funding, and the review of laws governing the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and the National Universities Commission (NUC).
ASUU also criticised the proliferation of universities, alleging that successive governments have used them for political patronage instead of strengthening existing institutions. It urged the government to extend its moratorium on new public universities to private ones, warning that unchecked expansion would further undermine quality and global competitiveness.
Highlighting the plight of retired professors under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), Piwuna said many who served for decades now survive on as little as ₦150,000 monthly, despite battling chronic illnesses and supporting dependents.
“This situation is cruel and unacceptable. Our retired colleagues are suffering, and government must reverse this ugly trend,” he stated.
Reiterating its demands—including full implementation of the 2009 Agreement, revitalisation of universities, sustainable funding, and an end to the victimisation of members—ASUU maintained that the responsibility to prevent industrial action rests squarely with the government.
“The general public should note that ASUU has tried every possible means to resolve these issues amicably. It is the federal government that has consistently pushed our union to the edge. If a strike happens, Nigerians should know who to hold responsible,” Piwuna concluded.
