The Congress of University Academics (CONUA) has called on the Nigerian federal government to ensure its inclusion in the ongoing renegotiation of the 2009 agreement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). The union argued that excluding its members from the process would undermine fairness and equity in resolving the issues facing university lecturers across the country.
In a recent statement, CONUA emphasized that the 2009 agreement, which serves as the foundation for the current negotiations, was intended to benefit all university academic staff, not just those affiliated with ASUU. The union warned that any attempt to revise the terms of the agreement without considering the interests of all university lecturers would be both unfair and detrimental.
“We cannot be sidelined in this renegotiation process,” said Dr. Niyi Sola, National President of CONUA. “The 2009 agreement was signed to improve the welfare of all academic staff in Nigerian universities. Therefore, every legitimate body representing university lecturers, including CONUA, deserves a place at the negotiating table.”
The 2009 agreement, which has long been a point of contention between ASUU and the federal government, addresses critical issues such as lecturers’ salaries, working conditions, and other academic matters. While ASUU has been at the forefront of pushing for a review of the agreement, CONUA formed as an alternative to ASUU represents a significant portion of academic staff across Nigerian universities and believes its input is crucial to any meaningful renegotiation.
Dr. Sola further warned that excluding CONUA from the discussions could deepen divisions among university lecturers, ultimately hindering efforts to reach a consensus on the pressing issues.
“We are united in our fight for the improvement of university education in Nigeria. Excluding any group from the negotiations only weakens our collective stance and delays the solutions we all need,” he added.
CONUA’s demand for inclusion comes as the federal government continues its negotiations with ASUU to address long-standing grievances impacting the country’s public university system. The union’s call highlights rising tensions within the academic community and calls for a more inclusive approach that incorporates the concerns of all university staff.
As discussions continue, many are closely watching how the government will respond to CONUA’s request and whether its participation in the renegotiation will lead to a more balanced and comprehensive resolution to the challenges facing Nigeria’s universities.
source: tribuneonlineng.com
