The Congress of University Academics (CONUA) has distanced itself from reports linking it to an ongoing strike in Nigerian universities, insisting it has not declared any industrial action.
In a statement signed by its National President, Dr Niyi Sunmonu, the union described the reports circulating on social media as misleading.
Sunmonu stated, “CONUA wishes to categorically clarify that it has not declared any strike action and is not part of any ongoing strike.”
News360 Info reports that the union reiterated its commitment to maintaining academic stability and ensuring uninterrupted learning across universities.
Sunmonu stressed that CONUA remained focused on constructive dialogue with the government and stakeholders.
He said, “It is important to emphasise that CONUA has no basis at this time to declare a dispute or embark on any strike action.”
He urged members to continue discharging their academic and administrative duties, engage students diligently, and uphold professionalism in their work.
Sunmonu recalled that when the renegotiation committee of the 2009 Agreement was inaugurated in October 2024, CONUA was deliberately excluded, a move the union protested.
This, he noted, led to a meeting with the Minister of Education on September 11, 2025, where assurances were given that the Yayale Ahmed Renegotiation Committee would be expanded to include all academic unions.
“We are pleased to note that the Ministry of Education has recently expanded the committee, fulfilling that promise. Until CONUA is formally brought to the table and any of the issues it has presented to the Federal Government becomes subjects of dispute, there is no foundation whatsoever for any strike action by CONUA,” the statement read.
According to the leadership, nationwide congresses held between September 18 and 24 unanimously resolved that no strike should be declared.
“Members reaffirmed CONUA’s principled stance that no strike action should be taken and that engagement, not disruption, remains the best path forward for the Nigerian university system,” Sunmonu explained.
The CONUA president appealed to Vice Chancellors to ensure the safety of its members while performing their duties in various institutions.
He also encouraged students to remain focused on their studies without fear of interruptions.
“CONUA’s unwavering focus is on building a sustainable, innovative, and productive academic environment that serves the interests of students, scholars, and the nation. We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of all stakeholders in supporting this constructive approach to advancing higher education in Nigeria,” he added.
