Asuu and the new minimum wage

You're referring to the recent development regarding the minimum wage in Nigeria and the role of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) in the matter.

For context, the Nigerian government had earlier announced a new minimum wage of N30,000 (approximately $80 USD) per month for federal workers, including university lecturers. However, the ASUU, which represents the interests of university lecturers, had been pushing for a higher minimum wage of N50,000 (approximately $130 USD) per month.

The ASUU had argued that the new minimum wage was inadequate and would not be enough to cover the rising cost of living in the country. The union had also demanded that the government implement other welfare packages, including the payment of outstanding allowances and the provision of infrastructure in universities.

In response to the government's announcement, the ASUU had threatened to embark on a strike if its demands were not met. The strike, which began on February 14, 2020, had significant implications for the academic calendar and the overall functioning of universities in Nigeria.

After several rounds of negotiations, the ASUU and the government finally reached an agreement on February 28, 2020. According to the agreement, the government would implement the new minimum wage of N30,000 per month for federal workers, including university lecturers. The government also agreed to pay outstanding allowances and provide infrastructure in universities.

While the ASUU had initially rejected the government's offer, the union eventually accepted the agreement after the government agreed to implement some of its demands. The strike was subsequently called off, and academic activities in Nigerian universities resumed.

In summary, the ASUU played a significant role in the recent minimum wage negotiations in Nigeria, pushing for a higher minimum wage and other welfare packages for university lecturers. While the union's demands were not fully met, the agreement reached between the ASUU and the government has improved the working conditions and remuneration of university lecturers in Nigeria.