The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) expresses concern over the mass departure of lecturers from public universities.

 

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has sounded an alarm regarding the widespread resignation of lecturers from Nigerian universities, causing a significant shortage of staff in various departments and units. The union attributes this exodus to factors such as poor and delayed salaries, unpaid allowances, inadequate infrastructure, lack of respect for the academic community, and a perceived decline in hope for improvement. Professor Ayo Akinwole, the chairman of ASUU at the University of Ibadan, emphasized the dire state of Nigeria's public universities, with visibly stressed and frustrated lecturers.

Akinwole pointed out that unless President Bola Ahmed Tinubu intervenes by addressing the conditions of service, including salaries, allowances, and infrastructure, the trend of lecturers resigning and seeking opportunities abroad may persist. He criticized the government's approach, noting that while funding for education is lacking, there are proposals in the National Assembly to establish 32 more universities. Akinwole argued that creating more universities is not a solution and suggested enhancing the capacity of existing institutions to admit more students.

The ASUU leader highlighted reports of monthly resignations among colleagues due to poor treatment and inadequate remuneration in Nigeria. He expressed concern about global competition for quality educators and emphasized the need for intentional improvements in conditions of service to retain the best talent. Akinwole criticized the government's policy, stating that the prolonged process of obtaining approval from Abuja for hiring delays urgent replacements and allows other countries to attract highly qualified candidates. Additionally, he pointed out the interference from higher-ups, including the Ministry of Education and legislators, in dictating university hiring decisions.