Calls for Unionisation of Private Universities in Nigeria
President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, has made a compelling call for the unionisation of private universities in Nigeria. His remarks came during a virtual conversation titled “A conversation with the President of ASUU, Professor Christopher Piwuna,” part of The Toyin Falola Interviews Series. This event brought together members of the academic community to discuss pressing issues within the tertiary education system.
Ajaero emphasized the need for the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to initiate discussions on how to bring private universities under the umbrella of unionisation. He pointed out that the current situation, where private universities remain untouched by the recurring ASUU strikes, is due to the absence of any academic union in these institutions. This, he argued, needs to change.
Addressing Government-Union Tensions
During the discussion, Ajaero highlighted the long-standing tensions between ASUU and the government. He questioned why the government would sign an agreement in 2009 without implementing it, calling for an end to the “incessant harassment” of ASUU and its members. He also recalled the historical context of ASUU’s creation, noting that it was initially intended to undermine the NLC. The government had previously claimed that ASUU was a senior staff association and should not be affiliated with the NLC, but this classification was later challenged and overturned by the NLC.
Ajaero further stated that private universities were established with the intent of weakening ASUU. He urged efforts to unionise these institutions, arguing that doing so would help address systemic challenges in the education sector.
Collaboration Among University Unions
In addition to his call for unionisation, Ajaero stressed the importance of synergy among university unions. He suggested that harmonising their demands from the government could lead to more effective advocacy and better outcomes for all stakeholders involved.
ASUU President, Prof. Christopher Piwuna, echoed some of these sentiments, stating that universities can only achieve the desired level of freedom if their staff have access to adequate facilities. He also addressed misconceptions about ASUU members, clarifying that they are not selfish. Instead, he noted that they continue to face intimidation from the government despite their efforts to improve the tertiary education system.
Ideological Disparities Between Government and ASUU
Professor Francis Egbokhare added another layer to the discussion by highlighting what he termed an “ideological problem” between the government and ASUU. He explained that while ASUU focuses on improving the quality of education through better welfare and facilities for teaching and research, the government views the role of unions differently. This ideological gap, he argued, must be bridged to ensure that students are not left to suffer as a result of these disagreements.
Egbokhare called for ideological convergence, emphasizing that the Nigerian people, particularly students, deserve a stable and effective higher education system.
The Path Forward
The conversation underscored the need for a unified approach to addressing the challenges facing the tertiary education sector in Nigeria. With the involvement of various stakeholders, including union leaders, academics, and government representatives, there is potential for meaningful dialogue and action.
As the debate continues, the call for the unionisation of private universities remains a critical step toward ensuring fairness, stability, and progress in the country’s educational landscape.