The Plateau State University branch of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a warning to the state and federal governments, stating their readiness to participate in a nationwide strike if critical issues affecting public universities are not resolved.
In a statement released by Chairman Dr. Monday Hassan and Secretary Dr. Lomka Iliya Kopdiya, the union emphasized the urgent need for the government to address the ongoing challenges facing universities.
They highlighted the government’s failure to sign and implement the Nimi Briggs renegotiated agreement, as well as the issue of the N170 billion approved for the revitalization of public universities in 2023.
The union expressed concern over the impact of these issues, citing a brain drain phenomenon where high-caliber academics are leaving the country in search of better opportunities.
They called on both the federal and state governments to take concrete actions to prevent an impending strike, emphasizing the importance of quality university education.
“Most of the highly esteemed intellectuals that should be on ground to mentor the upcoming scholars are leaving in search of better remuneration outside the country,” the union lamented.
They urged the government to move beyond mere rhetoric and demonstrate a genuine commitment to resolving the issues at hand.