Nigeria Union of Teachers Urges FG to Pay ASUU Eight Months Withheld Salaries
Dr. Ene called on the government not to impose conditions on the release of salaries, asserting that the "no work, no pay" policy is globally recognized in labor law, and Nigeria should not be an exception.
AKACHI NOEL 
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has issued a plea to the Federal Government, urging the immediate payment of eight months' withheld salaries to members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). Dr. Mike Ene, the National Secretary General of NUT, emphasized the need for prompt resolution to avoid prolonged dissatisfaction among university educators.
In an exclusive interview, Dr. Ene highlighted the government's obligation to honor agreements and prioritize the education sector. He emphasized that ASUU members resorted to industrial action due to the absence of better options to address their concerns.
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Dr. Ene called on the government not to impose conditions on the release of salaries, asserting that the "no work, no pay" policy is globally recognized in labor law, and Nigeria should not be an exception.
Furthermore, the NUT General Secretary urged all levels of government to cease paying lip service to the education sector, extending the plea from primary to tertiary levels. He stressed the importance of a well-funded and supported education system for national development.
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Expressing concern over the financial struggles of teachers, Dr. Ene stated that salaries for primary and secondary school teachers, owed by several state governments, should be settled before the end of 2023. He emphasized the necessity for teachers to lead decent lives, especially given the rising cost of goods and services.
Dr. Ene criticized the government's tendency to enter into agreements without a genuine intention to honor them, stating that such actions could hinder the country's progress. He called for increased attention and funding for the education sector in the coming year to ensure its effectiveness.
