Education Minister, Dr. Tunji Alausa
By EMMANUEL KUJE, Abuja –
Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa has reaffirmed that the 2009 agreement remains the only binding pact between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), dismissing claims of newer signed deals.
In a statement released on Friday in Abuja by Mrs. Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Education, the minister addressed misinterpretations of his Thursday remarks to journalists.
“The minister’s comments were misconstrued, and we aim to clarify the facts,” Boriowo stated.
She noted that in 2017, former Education Minister Malam Adamu Adamu formed a committee to renegotiate the 2009 agreement, resulting in the 2021 Nimi Briggs draft.
However, Boriowo emphasized, “The 2021 Nimi Briggs document was never formally signed by the Federal Government, making it non-binding.”
“The 2009 agreement remains the last officially executed document between the FG and ASUU,” she added, noting that the 2021 draft serves only as a basis for ongoing talks.
Boriowo underscored the government’s commitment to resolving the 16-year dispute with ASUU sustainably and constitutionally, ensuring universities remain operational for teaching and research.
“Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the Federal Government is steadfast in addressing ASUU’s concerns,” she affirmed, urging stakeholders to dismiss misinterpretations and support efforts to stabilize Nigeria’s academic landscape.
