L-R; Comrade Ademola Adedini- Investment officer, Comrade Yisa Anthonio – chairperson, and Comrade Olufemi Soneye -Secretary.
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), LASUSTECH Chapter, held a press conference at the Ikorodu campus of Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), reaffirming its resolute commitment to rescuing Nigeria’s public university system from collapse. Led by Comrade Yisa Oluwatoyin Anthonio, the chapter’s chairperson, the union underscored that its struggle transcends salary disputes, focusing instead on securing the future of higher education as a cornerstone of national development.
Comrade Anthonio articulated that ASUU’s prolonged battle, spanning over a decade, stems from the Federal Government’s failure to implement the 2009 FGN-ASUU Agreement. This pivotal accord addresses critical issues, including fair remuneration, adequate funding for research and infrastructure, and the preservation of university autonomy and academic freedom. “Our fight is not merely for personal gain but for the survival of a system that shapes Nigeria’s intellectual and developmental future,” Anthonio declared.
The press conference shed light on the dire consequences of government neglect, with public universities grappling with dilapidated facilities, a scarcity of research resources, and a relentless brain drain. These challenges, Anthonio noted, demoralise lecturers and erode the quality of education, jeopardling a crisis that threatens Nigeria’s global competitiveness. “Without urgent intervention, our universities risk becoming relics in a knowledge-driven world,” he warned.
ASUU LASUSTECH Chapter emphasised that a robust university system is indispensable for fostering innovation, critical thinking, and leadership. The union views universities as crucibles for addressing societal challenges and nurturing human capital essential for sustainable progress. Anthonio passionately argued, “A nation that neglects its universities forsakes its potential for growth and prosperity. We are fighting to ensure Nigeria does not stagnate.”
The union reiterated its call for the full implementation of outstanding agreements, including various Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and Memoranda of Action (MoAs). These documents, repeatedly sidelined by successive administrations, are critical to restoring dignity to the academic profession and repositioning universities as engines of transformation. The chapter pledged unwavering solidarity with ASUU’s national body, ready to pursue dialogue, engagement, or industrial action if necessary.
Comrade Anthonio appealed to stakeholders, including students, parents, and the public, to support ASUU’s cause, framing it as a collective struggle for Nigeria’s future. “This is a moral imperative to secure quality education and a thriving nation,” he stated.
The LASUSTECH Chapter remains steadfast in its advocacy, vowing to continue the fight until the government honours its commitments. With Nigeria’s public universities at a critical juncture, ASUU’s resolve underscores the urgency of revitalising an education system on the brink, ensuring it remains a beacon of hope and progress for generations to come.
