President Bola Tinubu has promised Nigerians that era of industrial strikes by members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is over.
He assured that his administration was committed to lasting peace and stability in the nation’s tertiary education sector.
Mr Tinubu gave the assurance at the 56th convocation of the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
He pledged that sustained dialogue, mutual respect and prompt fulfilment of agreements would replace the cycle of strikes that had disrupted academic calendars for decades.
Mr Tinubu, who is the visitor to the university, was represented at the event by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa.
He said his administration had demonstrated strong political will by ensuring uninterrupted academic sessions across tertiary institutions.
He noted that under his direct mandate, the federal government recently signed a new agreement with ASUU, which he said had decisively resolved a long-standing crisis that undermined confidence in the university system.
Mr Tinubu stated, “Since the inception of my administration, we have witnessed two uninterrupted academic sessions across our tertiary institutions, and this is no accident. It is the result of firm political will, sustained dialogue, and responsible leadership.
“For example, acting under my direct mandate, we have been able to sign a new agreement with ASUU that decisively resolves a crisis that has persisted for years and undermined confidence in our university system.
“This landmark achievement marks a turning point in the history of our tertiary education, guaranteeing industrial harmony and a predictable academic calendar. It will restore the dignity of learning and clearly end the era of perennial strikes in our universities.”
The president highlighted key reforms introduced by his administration, including the Nigerian Education Loans Fund (NELFUND) for students, the Institutional Staff Support Fund for tertiary institution workers, and other interventions aimed at revitalising the education sector.
Mr Tinubu also stressed the need for universities to produce well-rounded graduates who are not only job-ready but capable of creating jobs and driving innovation.
“My administration will continue to pursue far-reaching reforms across the education sector for a technology-driven future, including curriculum restructuring, quality assurance, promotion of skill-based learning, and fostering innovation-led problem-solving,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, Folasade Ogunsola, lauded members of the university Senate, staff, and other stakeholders for their dedication to advancing the institution.
Mrs Ogunsola applauded the graduates and their sponsors, noting that the graduates were thoroughly trained.
The VC urged them to turn challenges into opportunities and make positive contributions to society.
