By: Manoah Kikekon
Lecturers under the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) across Lagos State-owned tertiary institutions have officially suspended their industrial action and announced an immediate return to classrooms.
The decision brings major relief to thousands of students, parents, and university communities following disruptions to academic schedules. The decision affects three state-funded institutions: Lagos State University (LASU), Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), and Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH).
In a joint statement issued by Union leaders Olusegun Babalola (Coordinator, Steering Committee, ASUU-LASU), Grace Abimbola (Acting Chairman, ASUU-LASUED), and Murisiku Onigemo (Chairman, ASUU-LASUTECH) the union expressed gratitude to stakeholders who supported their push for staff welfare and implementation of vital academic agreements.
“Following the official suspension of our industrial action today, the leadership and entire membership of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, in Lagos State-owned universities wish to express our profound gratitude to the general public, institutional leaders, and key stakeholders who stood firmly by us throughout the negotiation process.
“Our struggle for improved staff welfare and the implementation of vital academic agreements has reached a significant milestone, largely due to the collective support of well-meaning individuals and organisations.”
The ASUU leadership commended civil society organizations, traditional rulers, and media organizations for playing pivotal roles during the impasse.
“We thank the Press and Broadcasting Organisations for your objective, timely, and investigative coverage. Your platforms ensured that our grievances were accurately communicated to the public and policymakers.
“We are also grateful for the solidarity and advocacy demonstrated by the Joint Action Front (JAF), Education Rights Concern (ERC), Campaign for Democratic Workers Rights (CDWR), and other pro-worker organisations. Furthermore, we honour our revered traditional rulers for their timely interventions, fatherly counsel, and behind-the-scenes diplomatic efforts.”
Reassuring students and parents of their commitment to educational excellence, the union confirmed that members would resume academic duties immediately while dialogue with the government continues.
“We deeply appreciate our students, parents, and other stakeholders for your resilience, patience, and understanding throughout this period. As our members return to the classrooms with immediate effect, we reaffirm our commitment to academic excellence and quality university education.
“We also look forward to continued engagement with the Lagos State Government to ensure the full resolution of all outstanding issues relating to our welfare package.”