The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) says it will meet with the Federal Government as the one-month ultimatum it issued to the authorities expires on Friday, November 21, 2025.

In a strategic move, the government extended an olive branch, inviting senior union negotiators to a meeting to conclude the renegotiation process.

In a communiqué exclusively obtained by TRIBUNE ONLINE on Thursday, the leadership emphasised that it would not spurn the invitation to dialogue — “as a responsible union” — even though they acknowledged the timing of the invitation as late.

The union is opting for engagement and says it will await the outcome of the meeting before any further action.

According to the memo, after the government meeting, the union’s National Executive Council (NEC) will convene to review any offer made by the Federal Government and decide on the “next line of action.”

The ASUU called on all members to remain “calm, motivated, and fully prepared” ahead of the NEC meeting, adding that the unity of the union remains “our greatest strength.”

The union also stressed that members should be ready to comply with whatever directive may emerge from the NEC once the renegotiation outcome is assessed.

The union ended the statement with a rallying cry: “The struggle continues…”

This is not the first time the union has issued an ultimatum. Earlier reports confirm that a one-month window was given for renegotiations.

The Federal Government, through the Education Minister, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, has publicly claimed that it has “literally met” many of ASUU’s demands, though the union disagrees.

Key union demands reportedly include the renegotiation of the 2009 FGN–ASUU Agreement, payment of withheld salaries, and a more sustainable funding model for public universities.

If the meeting yields a satisfactory government offer, it could avert a potentially disruptive strike, especially with the NEC poised to make a decision right after.

However, if the government’s proposal falls short, union members may face renewed calls for industrial action — especially if the NEC backs such a move.

The looming strike could have significant implications for students, parents, and university operations nationwide, particularly if negotiations break down. (TRIBUNE)