FG, ASUU in fresh talks on 40% wage boost

The Federal Government has proposed a 40 per cent salary increase for ASUU lecturers.Sources in Abuja confirmed the offer as negotiations between both parties resume soon.ASUU leaders will return to talks with the government team led by Yayale Ahmed.The decision follows a consensus reached during the union’s NEC meeting held on Sunday in Abuja.Branch chairmen who attended the meeting will brief members across all university campuses.A member present at the NEC meeting said negotiations will continue next week.He requested anonymity because negotiation rules restrict media engagement during the process.He confirmed that the government tabled a 40 per cent salary raise for lecturers.ASUU’s one-month ultimatum to the Federal Government expired last Saturday without resolution.The expiration increased tension within Nigeria’s public universities as workers awaited the next steps.To prevent a fresh strike, the government urgently invited ASUU leaders to Abuja on Monday.The meeting lasted through Tuesday, but both sides kept details away from the public.ASUU had threatened an indefinite strike over what it called the government’s nonchalant attitude.Key issues include a review of the 2009 agreement and payment of outstanding allowances.Other demands cover withheld salaries and release of the university revitalisation fund.Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa insisted the government had met most of ASUU’s demands.He stated that President Tinubu directed officials to avoid strikes in public universities.Alausa said the government aims to keep students in school through continuous dialogue.He maintained that recent disruptions were unnecessary because talks are ongoing.Meanwhile, the Nigeria Labour Congress has backed ASUU and promised strong advocacy if needed.