FG Orders VCs to Withhold Salaries Amid ASUU Strike

The Federal Government has officially instructed vice-chancellors of all federal universities to begin implementing the “no work, no pay” policy against striking members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). This directive intensifies the ongoing dispute between the government and the university lecturers.

The education ministry issued this order in a circular dated October 13, 2025. Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa signed the document, which cites the nation’s labour laws as the basis for the enforcement.

The circular states that the government will apply the “no work, no pay” rule to any employee who does not perform official duties during a strike period. This move directly targets ASUU members who have withdrawn their services.

University teachers are currently on strike due to the government’s failure to meet their outstanding demands. The industrial action has disrupted academic activities across federal universities nationwide.

Key government offices received copies of this directive. Recipients include the Head of the Civil Service, the Budget Office Director-General, the Education Permanent Secretary, and university Pro-Chancellors. The Accountant-General and the National Universities Commission Executive Secretary were also copied.

As detailed in the complete version, there are several key factors to consider.

This enforcement of the “no work, no pay” policy marks a significant escalation in the government’s response to the prolonged ASUU strike. The standoff continues as both parties remain at odds over the lecturers’ demands.