ASUU Suspends Strike — But Can Nigerians Trust the Government This Time?
Date: Wednesday, 22 October 2025
After two long weeks of halted lectures, closed hostels, and endless anxiety, university students across Nigeria can finally heave a sigh of relief. The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has announced the suspension of its warning strike, signaling a temporary end to yet another standoff between lecturers and the Federal Government.
ASUU had downed tools earlier this month to protest the government’s failure to fulfill key agreements, including unpaid allowances and the revitalization of public universities. The strike, though labeled a “warning,” quickly drew frustration from students who have already lost months in the past to similar crises.
For decades, the cycle has been the same — ASUU strikes, government promises, temporary peace, then another round of silence and tension.
Following several closed-door meetings in Abuja, ASUU leadership says it received renewed assurances that the government will release part of the outstanding funds and fast-track reforms in the education sector.
According to the union, the decision to suspend the strike is to “give peace a chance” and allow the government time to act. Lecturers are expected back in classrooms immediately, while students are returning to campuses nationwide this week.
Reactions from parents and students are a mix of joy and doubt. Many are simply happy that schools are reopening, while others fear this may be yet another “pause” before the next breakdown.
A student from the University of Ibadan reportedly said, “We’ve heard these promises before. Let’s hope this one lasts.” On social media, hashtags like #ASUUStrike and #FGPromisesAgain are trending — reflecting both relief and fatigue among Nigerians.
ASUU’s decision shows maturity and readiness for dialogue, but it also exposes a deeper issue — Nigeria’s education system has been running on borrowed trust. Year after year, billions are pledged but barely delivered, and the real victims remain students who lose time they can never recover.
Maybe it’s time both sides agree on a permanent funding formula that doesn’t depend on strikes to get attention. Education deserves consistency, not compromise.
Do you think ASUU made the right move by suspending the strike now — or should they have waited until the government fulfilled its promises? Share your thoughts below