By Chigozie Chukwuleta
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) Nnamdi Azikiwe University branch has issued a mobilization call for members to join the nationwide protest scheduled for Tuesday, August 26.
The union is calling on members to ensure participation in the protest that is demanding amongst other things better salary structures, improved welfare conditions, and an end to the neglect of Nigerian academics.
According to a statement signed by the ASUU-NAU chairperson, Comrade Innocent Nnubia, the protest is a very important one, “This protest is not just another activity on our calendar—it is a decisive moment, a historic opportunity to send a clear, united, and uncompromising message to the government: the current salary structures, welfare conditions, and neglect of Nigerian academics are unacceptable and unsustainable”.
“This call is not only about protest—it is about solidarity, dignity, and the future of our profession. We know that some comrades may feel disillusioned by the limited outcomes of previous struggles. But let us reflect on the wisdom of persistence: it takes many cuts to fall an iroko tree, but only one decisive strike brings it crashing down. This may well be that decisive cut that will tip the balance in our favour”,
“Here at NAU, our pain is even sharper. We face not only the general burden of poor remuneration but also glaring discrepancies in salaries and the non-payment of some of our comrades. This reality is not just unfair; it is unjust. And we must remember: an injury to one is truly an injury to all”,
He also said that the existing pension system robs academics of peace in retirement and that the neglect of academics’ welfare erodes the profession’s future.
The ASUU-NAU chapter is specifically highlighting the glaring discrepancies in salaries and non-payment of some staff members. They believe that united action can bring about change and are calling on comrades to participate fully in the protest.
Saying that silence today is hardship tomorrow but action today is hope for tomorrow, the branch Chairman appealed to members to join the march for fairness, justice and the future of Nigerian academics.
Other groups, such as the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), have expressed support for the protest.
