NLC Warns Federal Government: “No Work Without Pay, No Pay Without Work” Amid Ongoing ASUU Strike

By Diafa Doubra,

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has reaffirmed its support for the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) as the lecturers’ strike continues, declaring a firm stance of “no pay, no work.”

In a statement released on Monday, the NLC said the government’s persistent failure to address ASUU’s long-standing grievances has crippled the education sector and demoralized academic workers nationwide. The congress described the federal government’s handling of the strike as “insensitive and provocative,” stressing that the lecturers’ demands are legitimate and long overdue.

NLC President Joe Ajaero emphasized that the union would not fold its arms while the government starves workers for fighting for better conditions. “We reject the narrative that portrays striking workers as enemies of progress. The issue is justice, fairness, and respect for agreements freely entered into,” he stated.

The congress urged the Ministry of Education and the Federal Government to resume immediate negotiations with ASUU to restore stability in public universities. It also cautioned against any attempt to intimidate union members, warning that such actions could trigger broader industrial unrest.

The ASUU strike, which has lasted for weeks, revolves around unpaid salaries, improved funding for universities, and implementation of previous agreements between the union and the government.