In a firm response to the nationwide strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), the Federal Government has directed vice‑chancellors of all federal universities to carry out physical attendance checks of academic staff and submit comprehensive reports on those present and absent.

A circular, signed by Dr. Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education, made clear that any academic staff who participate in the strike will have their salaries withheld.

In contrast, members of other academic unions not involved in the strike—such as CONUA and NAMDA—are assured of uninterrupted pay.

Universities Ground to a Halt

Across the country, academic operations have ceased at federal and many state institutions, including:

* University of Abuja

* University of Jos

* University of Ilorin

* Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta

* Tai Solarin University of Education

* Olabisi Onabanjo University

* University of Ibadan

* Obafemi Awolowo University

* University of Calabar

* And others

On many campuses, lecture halls and offices remained locked, and there was minimal staff or student presence.

In some universities, such as Bayero University, students still writing exams were allowed to complete them before the full effect of the strike kicked in.

Some Academic Staff Continue

Despite the broad compliance with the strike, some members of CONUA reportedly continued to teach in selected institutions, maintaining academic engagement wherever possible.

Labour Groups Push Back

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has condemned the government’s threats of “no work, no pay,” arguing that prolonged government neglect and unmet promises have compounded the crisis.

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The NLC insists dialogues, not ultimatums, are the way forward.

The Demands

ASUU’s two-week warning strike calls for:

* Resumption of the renegotiated 2009 FGN–ASUU agreement

* Payment of withheld salaries and promotion arrears

* Revitalization and adequate funding of universities

* Settlement of outstanding salary differentials

Meanwhile, the government maintains that most of ASUU’s demands have been addressed already, declaring the strike unjustifiable at this moment.