The Plateau State University branch of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has signaled its intention to begin an indefinite, nationwide strike. This decision stems from the Plateau State Government’s refusal to honor the 2025 Federal Government/ASUU agreement regarding salary adjustments and staff allowances.
During a briefing in Jos on Thursday, Prof. Lawan Abubakar, speaking for the ASUU Bauchi Zone, stated that lecturers have reached a breaking point. Despite submitting the necessary salary template in early 2026, the state government claimed it was still evaluating the fiscal impact, a delay the union deems inexcusable given that the agreement has already been adopted elsewhere. Outstanding payments involve research, professorial, and academic tool allowances.
Beyond pay disputes, the union cited mounting frustrations regarding infrastructure and administrative conduct. Faculty members are struggling with increased workloads without proportional increases in staffing. Furthermore, the government has yet to fulfill promises from a 2023 agreement, including campus security fencing, staff housing, and stable electricity. The union also criticized the management’s decision to issue a query to their Branch Secretary, labeling it an act of intimidation.
With a formal resolution for strike action passed on May 13, 2026, the union is currently awaiting final clearance from its national leadership. They have urged the state government to release the necessary funding and resolve these long-standing issues to prevent a total shutdown of the university.
