CONUA Slams FG For Sidestepping Its Role In 2009 Agreement Renegotiation

The Congress of University Academics (CONUA) has strongly criticized the Federal Government for excluding the union from the ongoing renegotiation of the 2009 Agreement, which was initially discussed with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In a statement released on Tuesday, CONUA expressed its disappointment over the recent development, where the renegotiation committee, led by Yayale Ahmed, reportedly submitted its report without involving CONUA, despite receiving a prior letter from the government instructing the committee to engage with the union.

CONUA, in a statement signed by President Niyi Sunminu and National Secretary Henry Oripeloye, expressed frustration over the exclusion.

The union pointed out that on December 20, 2024, it received a formal invitation from the Minister of Education, Olatunji Alausa, directing the committee to include them in the renegotiation process. However, despite this invitation, CONUA claims it was never asked to participate.

“This development is both surprising and disappointing. We wonder why we were not invited to contribute to the renegotiation process despite a clear directive from the Minister of Education,” the statement read.

CONUA emphasized that the 2009 Agreement was made on behalf of all academic staff in Nigerian universities, and as such, all academic unions, including CONUA, should have been involved in the discussions on their welfare.

The union condemned the exclusion, stating that it was not only unfair but also contrary to international labor standards, particularly the principles of fairness, inclusivity, and democratic engagement outlined in the International Labour Organization (ILO) convention, which Nigeria has ratified.

“It is inappropriate for one union to represent the interests of others in a plural union environment. CONUA, as a registered and legitimate union, must be included in these discussions to ensure a fair representation of all academic staff,” the statement continued.

CONUA called on Minister of Education Dr. Alausa to address the oversight urgently and ensure the full participation of all academic unions, including CONUA, in the renegotiation process.

The union warned that continued exclusion could destabilize the fragile peace currently maintained in the academic system. “Excluding CONUA could erode the fragile stability we have in the academic system and lead to avoidable discontent among staff,” the statement cautioned, noting that this could disrupt the smooth academic calendar that Nigerian universities have experienced in the past two years.

The statement concluded by reaffirming CONUA’s commitment to constructive engagement, academic excellence, and sustainable reform in Nigeria’s university system. “CONUA remains committed to constructive engagement, academic excellence, and sustainable reform in the Nigerian university system,” the union said.

As the renegotiation process continues, CONUA urged the Federal Government to take immediate action to ensure the inclusion of all registered academic unions in discussions that affect their welfare and working conditions.