ASUU Suspends Strike, Demands Allowance Inclusion

The Academic Staff Union of Universities, University of Jos branch, is suspending its industrial action following the payment of March 2026 salaries to its members, bringing a temporary relief to academic activities at the institution.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the decision comes just days after the union embarks on a strike over delayed salary payments and the exclusion of the Earned Academic Allowance, a critical component of lecturers’ welfare.
The strike, which begins on April 8, is triggered by prolonged concerns over salary delays, prompting lecturers to withdraw from lectures, examinations, and official duties in compliance with union resolutions.
However, the Branch Chairperson, Jurbe Joseph Molwus, confirms that the university receives clearance from the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation shortly after the strike begins, leading to the release of funds for salary payments.
Following verification across faculties, the union notes that the majority of its members have received their March salaries, prompting a reassessment of the situation and a decision to suspend the strike.
According to Mediaplusng.com, ASUU directs its members to immediately resume lectures, conduct examinations, and participate in statutory meetings while discussions with the Federal Government continue.
Despite the progress, the union raises concerns over the continued exclusion of the Earned Academic Allowance from the salary payments, describing it as a key issue that must be addressed to ensure industrial harmony.
ASUU emphasizes that the allowance forms part of agreements previously reached with the Federal Government, and its omission undermines trust and commitment between both parties.
The union calls on the Federal Government to urgently release funds required to fully implement the 2025 agreement, noting that failure to do so could trigger another round of industrial action.
Education stakeholders warn that recurring strikes in Nigerian universities continue to disrupt academic calendars, affect student performance, and weaken confidence in the public education system.
Analysts say timely payment of salaries and allowances is essential to maintaining stability in the university system, improving staff morale, and ensuring uninterrupted learning.
Students at the University of Jos are expected to return to classrooms as academic activities gradually resume, although concerns remain about potential disruptions if unresolved issues persist.
The union reiterates its commitment to dialogue and constructive engagement but cautions that patience among members should not be taken for granted.
Authorities are now under pressure to address outstanding demands and prevent further disruptions that could affect thousands of students and academic programmes nationwide.
The development highlights the ongoing challenges within Nigeria’s higher education sector and underscores the need for sustainable solutions to labour disputes.
For now, academic activities resume, but the situation remains under close watch as negotiations between ASUU and the Federal Government continue.