ASUU declares indefinite strike at IBB University By Famrah Bagudu

Members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at the Lapai branch of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU) in Niger State, Nigeria, have initiated an indefinite strike. The action stems from the alleged non-implementation of crucial aspects of the 2025 federal government-ASUU agreement by the state government.

The decision was announced on Monday following an emergency congress and press conference held at the university. ASUU-IBBU Chairman Galadima Bala stated that the industrial action became necessary after multiple attempts to resolve the issues surrounding the agreement's implementation failed. He emphasized that the agreement, which involved state governments and public universities, should be fully implemented to ensure harmony and stability within the university system.

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The union announced the decision on Monday following an emergency congress and a press conference held at the university premises in Lapai.

Bala highlighted that approximately 16 state-owned universities across Nigeria, including institutions in Bauchi, Gombe, Benue, Yobe, Osun, Ekiti, and Kano states, have already started implementing the agreement. Nasarawa State University is also reportedly on board. He warned that Niger State risks falling behind if it fails to address the union's concerns.

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Mr Bala said the agreement, reached with the participation of state governments and public universities, should be implemented fully to ensure industrial harmony and stability in the university system.

The union expressed alarm over the continued departure of academic staff from universities where the agreement remains unimplemented, citing a claim that Kaduna State University has lost over 200 lecturers, a claim the university disputes. ASUU-IBBU cautioned that the ongoing neglect of the education sector could have severe implications for the state's development and security.

ASUU-IBBU is calling on the Niger State Government to urgently address its grievances and take concrete steps toward implementing the outstanding provisions of the agreement. The union affirmed its openness to genuine dialogue and stated that the strike would be suspended upon demonstrable commitment and concrete action from the government. They also appealed to their members to remain calm and disciplined during the industrial action, expressing regret for any inconvenience caused to students, parents, and other stakeholders.

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He noted that Nasarawa State University had also commenced implementation, warning that Niger State risked falling behind other states if it failed to address the union’s concerns.