Lecturers Threaten Fresh Strike Over FG’s Broken Promises — What This Means for Students and Nigeria’s Education Sector
The Nigerian academic space is once again on edge as university lecturers threaten to embark on a fresh nationwide strike. This renewed tension stems from what lecturers describe as long-standing, unfulfilled promises by the Federal Government (FG) — promises they believe are critical for restoring stability and quality to Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.
With students, parents, and stakeholders already weary from the repeated disruptions in academic calendars over the years, this looming showdown raises important questions about the future of higher education in the country.
Background: What Sparked This New Threat?
The grievance fueling the fresh strike threat centers on the Federal Government’s alleged failure to implement key agreements reached with lecturers’ unions. These agreements — many of which date back years — cover issues such as welfare, earned allowances, university funding, revitalization grants, academic autonomy, and improved working conditions.
While there have been multiple negotiations, committees, and deadlines, lecturers argue that little to no meaningful progress has been made. This perceived pattern of unfulfilled commitments has led union leaders to conclude that only industrial action forces change.
Funding Issues: The Heart of the Conflict
University lecturers insist that Nigeria’s universities are severely underfunded, resulting in:
- Poor infrastructure
- Overcrowded classrooms
- Obsolete laboratory equipment
- Limited research funding
- Delays in project completion
- Poor staff motivation
They believe that without adequate financial investment, tertiary institutions cannot compete globally, nor can students receive the standard of education they deserve.
The promised revitalization fund, which was meant to address these gaps, remains largely unimplemented — one of the biggest sources of friction.
Welfare and Earned Allowances: Unresolved and Mounting
Another major sticking point is welfare-related allowances, which lecturers say have been delayed, partially paid, or neglected entirely.
These include:
- Earned Academic Allowances (EAA)
- Salary adjustments
- Arrears for sabbatical and promotion delays
- Improved retirement benefits
Lecturers argue that the inability of the government to honor these commitments makes it harder for them to give their best, especially amid rising economic challenges and inflation.
️ Autonomy and Governance Issues: A Growing Concern
Beyond financial issues, lecturers emphasize the need for greater autonomy in university governance. They have criticized policies that they believe undermine the independence of universities, including:
- Overreach by government agencies
- Politicization of governing councils
- Centralized payment platforms that create delays
- Lack of academic freedom
Restoring autonomy, they argue, is necessary for innovation, research growth, and efficiency.
Impact on Students: A Cycle of Uncertainty
If lecturers proceed with a strike, it will once again be students who pay the highest price. Potential consequences include:
- Delayed graduations
- Extended academic sessions
- Interrupted research projects
- Increased financial burdens
- Emotional and psychological stress
Many students nationwide still remember the eight-month strike of 2022, which disrupted academic calendars and led to significant setbacks.
What Needs to Happen Now?
To avoid another crippling shutdown of academic activities, education stakeholders recommend:
- Immediate renegotiation of key agreements
- Clear timelines for implementation
- Transparent reporting on progress made
- Increased budgetary allocation to education
- Constructive communication between government and lecturers
The future of Nigeria’s education system depends on sustainable solutions rather than temporary patches.
Final Thoughts
The renewed threat of strike by lecturers is a loud warning sign that deeper issues in Nigeria’s university system remain unresolved. Until the Federal Government and lecturers find a lasting and sincere approach to addressing these challenges, the cycle of strikes may continue — to the detriment of students and the nation.