The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has given the Federal Government a four-day deadline to begin implementing the newly approved salary structure for university lecturers nationwide.
ASUU President, Christopher Piwuna, made this known on Thursday, March 26, during a public lecture at Sa’adu Zungur University, Yuli Campus, in Bauchi State.
He explained that although both parties agreed on the new salary structure in December 2025, with implementation expected to start in January 2026, the government has yet to act.
According to Piwuna, the ultimatum begins immediately, urging the government to commence payment without further delay under the agreed structure.
“We have issued a four-day ultimatum from today to the Federal Government to begin the payment of the newly approved salary structure. Failure to comply will attract a strong response from the union,” he said.
He criticised the government for repeatedly failing to honour agreements, noting that such actions have historically triggered disputes and industrial actions within the university system.
On another issue, Piwuna reacted to plans to establish a branch of Coventry University in Nigeria following Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit to London.
He stated that ASUU would oppose the move, describing it as a form of colonial influence that could undermine the value of local universities.
Piwuna further argued that instead of inviting foreign institutions, the government should focus on strengthening Nigeria’s existing universities in partnership with ASUU to improve standards and meet the country’s educational needs.