During separate press conferences, representatives from the University of Ilorin and Kwara State University emphasized the need for funding existing universities rather than establishing new ones that cannot be adequately supported.
Since 2019, ASUU and the federal government have entered into and signed various agreements regarding the welfare of university staff and the improvement of infrastructure across universities. Despite this, several strikes have been initiated by ASUU to push the government to implement these agreements.
At the University of Ilorin, ASUU members addressed journalists, highlighting several unmet requests. Dr. Alex Akanmu, Chairman of ASUU UniIlorin, pointed out the government’s failure to renegotiate the 2019 agreement. He expressed disappointment with the current administration, which had raised hopes for resolving these issues but has acted contrary to expectations.
Similarly, Dr. Shehu Salau, Chairman of ASUU KWASU, mentioned that about three and a half months of salaries are still owed by the federal government. He condemned the deceitfulness of the concerned authorities and warned that if the government does not address the outstanding issues, ASUU may be forced to take action. Dr. Salau stressed that ASUU does not enjoy going on strike, but it may become necessary if the government fails to meet their demands.
Both university branches marched around their campuses with inscriptions stating that strikes are a last resort and called on education stakeholders to urge the federal government to fulfill its obligations and prevent the neglect of existing universities.
