NLC Confronts FG Over Tertiary Education Crisis, Declares Full Support for ASUU and Allied Unions

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a strong warning to the Federal Government (FG) over the worsening crisis in the nation’s public tertiary education system, declaring full solidarity with all education unions currently in dispute with the government over poor funding and unfulfilled agreements.

In a letter signed by NLC President, Joe Ajaero, and dated October 14, 2025, the Congress announced an emergency meeting of all affiliate unions in the education sector to develop a joint strategy against what it described as the government’s “persistent breach of collectively bargained agreements” and its reliance on threats, particularly the “no work, no pay” policy.

The letter, addressed to the Presidents and General Secretaries of unions including ASUU, NASU, SSUCOEN, ASUP, ASUCA, COEASU, NAAT, ASURI, SSANU, and SSANIP, read in part:

“The NLC conveys its fraternal greetings to you and your esteemed unions. You are undoubtedly aware of the ongoing crisis in our nation’s public tertiary education system, as highlighted in our Press Release of 13th October, 2025, in which some of your unions are already fully engaged.

“The commencement of a two-week warning strike by ASUU and the various ultimatums issued by most of your unions to the Federal Government are direct consequences of government’s persistent refusal to honour collectively bargained agreements.”

According to Ajaero, the emergency meeting—scheduled to hold at the NLC Headquarters in Abuja—aims to foster a united labour front capable of compelling the government to address unresolved issues affecting tertiary institutions across the country.

“In line with our declaration of full solidarity with ASUU and all unions in the education sector, and in recognition of the urgent need to evolve a comprehensive and unified strategy, the Congress has scheduled an emergency meeting to strategize on effective engagement with the Federal Government regarding the unresolved issues in the tertiary education sector,” the letter stated.

The NLC emphasized that the battle to protect and revive public education must be a collective effort, urging all affiliate unions to stand together in defense of the system.

“Comrades, the struggle for the survival of public education is a fight for the soul of our nation. We can no longer afford to have our unions stand alone,” Ajaero wrote.

“It is therefore imperative that your union is represented at this crucial meeting. The only solution lies in honouring negotiated agreements. Government must equally be reminded that there is a converse principle — ‘no pay, no work.’”

The Congress reaffirmed its commitment to the ongoing struggles of ASUU and other unions, describing the crisis in public tertiary institutions as a reflection of government’s neglect of education and disregard for collective bargaining.

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