ASUU Today: Appeals to NASS, Rejects NELFUND, Calls for Sustainable University Funding
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) remains at the centre of national attention today with several fresh developments: the union has formally appealed to the National Assembly for intervention, publicly faulted the proposed NELFUND student-loan scheme, and reiterated calls for consistent, sustainable funding for public universities.
ASUU appeals to the National Assembly
ASUU has called on the National Assembly to intervene in the ongoing dispute with the Federal Government, urging lawmakers to use legislative oversight to help secure binding commitments that will protect university autonomy, ensure payment of arrears, and guarantee implementation timelines for revitalization funds. The union hopes parliamentary pressure will speed up durable solutions and prevent prolonged academic disruption.
ASUU faults NELFUND — prefers grants to loans
The union has publicly critiqued the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) student-loan model, arguing that loans shift the burden to students and their families. ASUU advocates for direct university grants and sustained public funding instead of expanding loan dependency — saying grants would better support institutional revitalization and equitable access to higher education.
Renewed call for sustainable funding
ASUU again emphasised that the root of repeated strikes is chronic underfunding. The union insists that one-off funds are not enough — what is needed is a long-term financing framework for university revitalization, regular wage implementation, and resolution of promotion and deduction issues that have persisted for years.
Source: Punch (analysis on funding and rankings)
What students should watch
- Legislative action: Follow any parliamentary motions or hearings — NASS engagement could shape outcomes.
- Policy changes: Monitor official statements on NELFUND and whether grant alternatives are considered.
- Academic continuity: Prepare for possible disruptions but watch for verified announcements about class/exam schedules.