ASUU Slams Government Over Corruption And Weak Institutions, Urges Action.
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has voiced serious concerns about rampant corruption, institutional weaknesses, and bureaucratic inefficiencies plaguing Nigeria, accusing these issues of severely undermining governance. Speaking at the union’s 23rd National Delegates Conference at the University of Benin (UNIBEN) in Edo State, ASUU National President, Prof Emmanuel Osodeke, lambasted the Federal Government for its lack of transparency, inclusiveness, and accountability.
Osodeke highlighted the dire consequences of neo-liberal economic policies, which he said have worsened living conditions, fuelling apathy, cynicism, criminality, and mass emigration among Nigerian youths, commonly referred to as “japa.” Despite Nigeria’s abundant oil reserves, agricultural potential, and vibrant youth population, Osodeke noted that the country grapples with soaring unemployment, inflation, a weakening currency, and escalating poverty. He called on the government to tackle corruption head-on and bolster the nation’s institutions to address these challenges.
Meanwhile, the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics (SSANIP) has accused the Federal Government of neglecting the welfare of polytechnic workers. Speaking in Abeokuta, Ogun State, SSANIP National President, Adebanjo Ogunsipe, described the government’s approach as “insensitive,” pointing out that current salary structures are inadequate and often paid late. He stressed the critical role of polytechnic staff in Nigeria’s education system and urged President Bola Tinubu to prioritise technical education, which he described as a cornerstone of economic development.
In a related development, the Social Science Academy of Nigeria (SSAN) has criticised recent remarks by the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, who claimed that Nigeria has an oversupply of Social Science graduates. The academy rejected the minister’s assertion, arguing it undermines the value of social sciences in national development.
As ASUU prepares to elect new leadership at its conference, the union’s demands for systemic reform and improved governance continue to resonate, placing pressure on the Federal Government to act decisively.