The Federal Government has debunked reports in some sections of the media that the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is on strike.

Education Minister, Dr Tunji Alausa, revealed this in a statement on Tuesday, emphasising the Nigerian government’s efforts to maintain industrial harmony in tertiary institutions.

Dr. Alausa attributed the current stability in universities to sustained dialogue, mutual respect, and the government’s commitment to addressing staff demands. He noted that Nigerian public tertiary institutions have remained open and stable for the past two years.

A statement by the Director, Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, Boriowo Folasade, quoted the minister as highlighting the government’s commitment to maintaining cordial relationships with stakeholders in the education sector.

“It is not by coincidence that Nigerian Public Tertiary Institutions have remained open and stable for the past two years, something that has not happened in several decades,” the minister said. “This is a reflection of our government’s unwavering commitment to maintaining cordial relationships with all stakeholders in the education sector. We are meeting demands in phases, and we are doing so respectfully and consistently.”

Dr. Alausa emphasised that the welfare of both academic and non-academic staff remains a top priority for the Federal Government, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for Human Capital Development. He reassured that the government will not relent in improving working conditions and protecting the academic calendar.

“Our children are the heartbeat of the nation, and their uninterrupted education is non-negotiable. The Federal Government will continue to work closely with all unions in the education sector to ensure that the gates of our institutions remain open,” he added.

The minister concluded by urging the public to disregard any misinformation suggesting that ASUU is on strike, reiterating that the current stability in the university system is a joint achievement that must be preserved.