The Kaduna State Government has been placed on high alert as the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Kaduna State University (KASU) chapter, threatens to resume its strike action if its demands are not met by the end of May 2026.
Unfulfilled Prompts Spark Renewed Tension
Speaking on behalf of ASUU, Dr. Usman Sadiq, a member of the media committee, revealed in an interview that many demands presented to the government have not been fulfilled since the last negotiation meeting. He stated, “We now feel that the promises made to suspend our last strike have not been met. We are being pushed to go back to the trenches.”
One major grievance is the non-implementation of the 2009 agreement between ASUU and the Federal Government, which the state government has yet to adopt. “As of today, most state governments in the North have implemented the 2009 agreement, but at KASU we don’t know when the state government will fulfill this very important aspect,” Sadiq noted.
Promotion Arrears and Operational Hindrances
Another critical issue is the non-payment of promotion arrears. Sadiq explained that many lecturers promoted up to three years ago have not received corresponding salary increments for their new ranks. Additionally, the university’s inability to operate without seeking clearance from an authorized body is slowing down its effectiveness. “We have to send requests for anything, and it usually takes time. Imagine if our labs need urgent attention; we must wait for approval. A university cannot operate like that,” he said.
Sadiq lamented that KASU was once one of the best state universities in the country, with vigorous staff training and prompt resolution of salary issues. “Before, if any staff had an issue with their salary, they could walk to the bursary and everything would be solved. But now, many staff have pending issues,” he added.
Brain Drain and Economic Hardship
The economic situation and lack of motivation have led to a significant brain drain. “Many reliable and competent lecturers have left the university. Many are planning to leave. More worrisome is the fact that 80 percent of our professors have parked their vehicles and cannot drive to work,” Sadiq stated.
Commendation and Ultimatum
Despite the grievances, the ASUU official commended the government for clearing withheld salaries, calling it a positive step. However, he warned that patience is running out. “If by the end of May 2026 nothing is forthcoming, we will be forced to embark on a strike,” he concluded.
