The Forum of Governing Council Members in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions (FOGOCOM) has appealed to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to suspend its ongoing two-week warning strike in the overall interest of Nigerian students and the stability of the nation’s education system.
In a statement issued in Abuja, FOGOCOM’s National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Benedict Aguele, expressed deep concern over the recurring industrial actions that continue to disrupt academic activities in public universities. He warned that frequent strikes have far-reaching consequences on students’ academic progress, mental well-being, and the global credibility of Nigeria’s university system.
While acknowledging ASUU’s legitimate demands for improved welfare, infrastructure, and funding, the Forum urged the union to embrace constructive dialogue and sustained engagement with the Federal Government rather than industrial action.
“Strike is never a good thing for a developing nation like Nigeria,” Aguele said. “Each disruption weakens our educational foundation and limits the future opportunities of our students. We therefore appeal to ASUU and the Federal Government to find common ground for the sake of our children and the future of our country.”
The Forum also called on the Federal Government, as the custodian of public education, to intensify efforts toward improving learning conditions, research facilities, and staff welfare across tertiary institutions.
FOGOCOM reaffirmed its readiness to mediate and support any constructive engagement between ASUU and the government to achieve a lasting solution to the persistent crises in the education sector.