Dear ASUU Leadership,
It is high time we faced the reality regarding the welfare of university staff in Nigeria. The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) must place the well-being of its members at the forefront of its agenda. No educational system can thrive when the backbone of that system is its academic staff lives in hunger and despair. Meaningful teaching, impactful research, and genuine innovation can not emerge from minds burdened by poverty and malnutrition. Starving intellects can not produce academic excellence.
The welfare of university staff is not just important it is paramount. ASUU must stop beating around the bush and act decisively. Our lecturers are suffering in silence, and the cries are growing louder. The dignity and integrity of university staff are being eroded, largely due to inadequate remuneration and neglect. When lecturers are poorly paid and demotivated, expecting high moral and professional standards becomes unrealistic.
Sadly, the economic hardship faced by many lecturers has pushed some into unethical activities, such as involvement in electoral malpractice actions they would ordinarily condemn. The societal respect once accorded to university lecturers is rapidly fading. Many communities now view them with suspicion, especially in light of incessant strikes, which have disrupted academic calendars and strained public trust.
Historically, ASUU has been the pillar of advocacy for a better educational system in Nigeria. However, in its quest for reform, the Union has also made enemies and, at times, sacrificed its members’ welfare in the process. It is time for a shift in focus. The new leadership of ASUU must prioritise staff welfare, as no real progress in education can occur without motivated and respected lecturers.
This is a passionate appeal from concerned citizens to the ASUU chairman and leadership. We urge you to reflect deeply, act boldly, and advocate tirelessly for the well-being of university staff. Only then can we hope for a revitalised university system that commands respect both locally and internationally.
Sincerely,
Dr. Abdullahi Bello Musa
Concerned Citizen
