The Federal Government has directed vice-chancellors of federal universities across the country to strictly enforce the “no work, no pay” policy against members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities currently participating in the ongoing nationwide strike.
The directive was contained in a circular dated October 13, 2025, and signed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa.
The circular was copied to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Permanent Secretary of Education, Pro-Chancellors of all federal universities, Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, the Accountant-General of the Federation, and the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission.
According to the circular, the Federal Ministry of Education expressed dissatisfaction over reports of the continued industrial action by ASUU despite repeated calls for dialogue, stressing that the government would no longer tolerate non-compliance with extant labour laws.
Alausa further directed that salary payment for the period of work stoppage be withheld from those who fail to perform their duties.
He clarified that members of the Congress of University Academics and the National Association of Medical and Dental Academics, who are not part of the strike, are exempted from the directive and will not face any salary deductions.
The minister also tasked the NUC to monitor compliance with the directive and submit a consolidated report to the ministry within seven days of receiving the circular.
“Please, treat this matter with utmost urgency and a deep sense of responsibility in national interest,” Alausa urged the university heads.
