The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has declared that its persistence was the key factor that prevented the complete collapse of Nigeria’s public university system during the administration of late President Muhammadu Buhari and former Labour Minister, Senator Chris Ngige.
At a grand reception held in his honour at the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), the union’s immediate past National President, Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, said ASUU fought tirelessly to keep public universities alive while other public institutions such as Nigerian Airways and refineries fell apart. He claimed the union faced major battles under his leadership, especially due to what he described as the government’s neglect and poor handling of academic welfare.
Osodeke criticised the strained relationship between ASUU and Ngige, blaming it for worsening conditions in the education sector. He said only the determination and unity of ASUU members stopped the system from collapsing.
He expressed concern over the poor treatment of lecturers, which he believes has driven many qualified academics to seek opportunities abroad. He, however, highlighted a major achievement during his tenure — the removal of universities from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), allowing professors to now retire with full benefits.
He urged federal and state governments to invest more in public universities, noting they still provide quality education and accommodate 95 percent of Nigeria’s university students.
New ASUU President, Professor Chris Piwuna, who also spoke at the event, reaffirmed the union’s commitment to fighting for university autonomy, better staff welfare, and improved learning conditions. He stressed that while ASUU prefers dialogue, industrial actions remain a global strategy that may still be used if necessary.
Piwuna praised Osodeke’s leadership and promised to carry on his legacy with renewed dedication.
Others who spoke at the event, including MOUAU’s ASUU Chairman, Professor Chike Ugwuene, and the institution’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe (represented by his deputy, Professor Nneoma Obasi), praised Osodeke’s efforts. They commended his unwavering commitment to defending university education and ensuring a strong working relationship between ASUU and MOUAU’s management.
