The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has rejected further engagement with the Federal Government until the Ministers of Education and Labour appear in person to address unresolved issues from their December 2024 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
In a statement issued on January 31, 2025, ASUP President Shammah S. Kpanja revealed that the union review meeting with government officials, held on January 30, 2025, failed to produce satisfactory resolutions. The meeting, convened by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, included discussions with the Budget Office of the Federation concerning arrears of the 25% and 35% salary increase, personnel shortfalls, promotion arrears, and the Peculiar Earned Academic Allowance.
However, the union expressed dissatisfaction with the Federal Ministry of Education, as its Minister was again absent, sending a representative instead. In response, ASUP refused to sign any new agreement until both Ministers appear in person for negotiations.
Following this stance, the meeting was adjourned, with a new date to be determined after consultations with the Ministers. ASUP has announced an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting within two weeks to provide a comprehensive briefing and determine the next course of action.
The union remains firm in its demand for accountability and full implementation of the MoU, emphasizing that the welfare of polytechnic lecturers cannot be compromised.
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