By Ghazali Ibrahim
In a decisive response to the ongoing nationwide strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), the Federal Government has directed vice‑chancellors of federal universities to implement the longstanding “no work, no pay” policy for lecturers who fail to perform their official duties during the industrial action.
The directive, issued in a circular signed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, is dated October 13, 2025. It mandates that universities conduct roll calls and submit reports distinguishing staff present from those absent due to the strike. Salaries are to be withheld for academic staff participating in the industrial action.
The government’s decision follows ASUU’s declaration of a comprehensive warning strike beginning October 13.
In a joint statement, the Ministers of Education and State for Education said that while dialogue remains preferred, the government will uphold existing labour laws to protect the integrity of the education system.
ASUU, which is demanding fulfillment of agreed conditions of service, revitalization of public universities, release of withheld salaries, and reversal of alleged victimisation of members, has been warned that continuation of the strike will invite the application of the policy.
As this move unfolds, attention is on how vice‑chancellors will execute the directive, how lecturers will respond, and whether the strike will deepen tensions in Nigeria’s higher education sector.
