The Federal Government has directed a nationwide roll call of university lecturers to enforce its “no work, no pay” policy as ASUU begins a two-week warning strike, drawing sharp criticism from the NLC and the union.
As the nationwide strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) commenced on Monday, the Federal Government ordered vice-chancellors to conduct an immediate roll call and physical headcount of lecturers across federal universities to enforce compliance with its “no work, no pay” directive.
The directive was contained in a circular dated October 13, 2025, signed by Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, and addressed to vice-chancellors and other key education stakeholders. “In line with existing labour regulations, any employee who fails to discharge official duties during a strike period will not be entitled to remuneration,” the circular read.
Dr. Alausa expressed disappointment that ASUU proceeded with the strike “despite ongoing engagement efforts,” stressing that the government “would no longer condone disruptions to the academic calendar.”
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) condemned the directive, describing it as “intimidation tactics.” Its president, Joe Ajaero, said, “The breach of contract lies with the state, not the scholars.”
ASUU also faulted the move, with Zonal Coordinator Adeola Egbetokun warning, “There is what is called ‘No Pay No Work.’ We wish Dr. Alausa and his ministry good luck with the enforcement.”
The NLC threatened to convene an emergency congress and mobilize nationwide solidarity actions if the government fails to address ASUU’s demands after the two-week warning strike.
READ MORE AT SAHARA REPORTERS.