The Nigerian tertiary education system remains deeply affected by the persistent cycle of industrial actions. As of July 2025, students, parents, and academic staff are once again on edge following updates from the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU), and other higher education bodies. These disruptions have not only delayed academic calendars but also fueled uncertainty around graduation timelines and NYSC mobilization.
This post provides reliable, up-to-date information on the current state of ASUU and NASU strikes, what to expect in the coming months, and practical steps Nigerian students can take during this period of instability. If you’re an undergraduate, postgraduate, or education stakeholder seeking clarity, this guide is for you.
What is Happening in July 2025? — A Quick Overview
As of the second week of July 2025, here is the current status of industrial actions across Nigerian tertiary institutions:
- ASUU is threatening a fresh nationwide strike, citing the Federal Government’s failure to implement key agreements.
- NASU and SSANU are already observing a warning strike across several universities.
- Colleges of Education and Polytechnics face similar unrest with staff unions also demanding unmet allowances and welfare improvements.
- Students in many federal and state universities are uncertain about exam schedules and semester timelines.
Let’s break down these developments in detail.
ASUU Strike Update – July 2025
Why ASUU May Strike Again
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has raised fresh concerns over the non-implementation of the 2023 Memorandum of Action (MoA) signed with the Federal Government. Some of the key unresolved issues include:
- Earned Academic Allowances (EAA) not yet paid to academic staff
- Failure to release revitalization funds to improve university infrastructure
- Delays in resolving the issue of IPPIS vs UTAS payment platforms
- Unpaid salaries and promotion arrears for lecturers in federal and state universities
“The Federal Government’s silence on the agreed timelines is provoking,” said Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, ASUU National President, during a press briefing on July 8, 2025.
ASUU has issued a two-week ultimatum, threatening a full-blown strike if the Federal Government does not act.
Universities at Risk of Shutdown
If ASUU proceeds with the strike, these institutions may be among the first affected:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
Note: Some state-owned universities like LASU and GSU may not participate if they already settled local agreements.
What Students Should Do
- Monitor your school’s official channels – Look out for memos from your Vice-Chancellor or Registrar.
- If you’re about to write exams, prepare ahead regardless of the looming strike.
- For final-year students, ensure your project and clearance documents are ready in case of an abrupt academic halt.
- Consider online short courses (see: NIIT Nigeria or ALX Africa) to keep yourself productive.
NASU and SSANU Joint Action
Current Status
The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), under the Joint Action Committee (JAC), declared a one-week warning strike on July 3, 2025.
Their grievances include:
- Non-payment of 4-month withheld salaries from the 2022 strike
- Exclusion from earned allowances
- Lack of promotion and training opportunities for non-academic staff
- Disparities in staff housing and retirement benefits
Institutions Already Disrupted
As of July 10, 2025:
- Administrative offices are closed in major universities
- Libraries and laboratories are inaccessible
- Examinations and clearance processes are delayed
This affects not only learning but also NYSC mobilization, certificate issuance, and admission processing.
How This Affects Nigerian Students
The consequences of the ongoing tensions are far-reaching for students:
1. Academic Delays
- Continuous strikes delay graduation timelines.
- NYSC mobilization for Batch B may face delays in some institutions.
- Postgraduate admissions may be paused, especially for those seeking foreign opportunities.
2. Mental and Emotional Stress
Many students are experiencing burnout due to uncertainty, especially those who resumed only recently after the last strike.
3. Increased Financial Burden
Prolonged stay in school increases expenses for accommodation, feeding, and transportation.
Practical Steps for Nigerian Students During This Period
1. Enroll in Online Learning Platforms
If your academic activities are on hold, use this time wisely:
| Platform | Recommended Course | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Coursera | Google IT Support | coursera.org |
| Udemy | Data Analysis in Excel | udemy.com |
| LinkedIn Learning | CV and Interview Skills | linkedin.com/learning |
| ALX Africa | Software Engineering Program | alxafrica.com |
2. Volunteer or Intern Locally
Look for NGOs or businesses near you where you can volunteer or gain work experience. This builds your CV and keeps you active.
3. Apply for Scholarships and Opportunities
Make use of this idle time to apply for:
- PTDF Overseas Scholarships
- DAAD Scholarships for Nigerians
- Commonwealth Scholarships
- EduTrust Asia (for Nigerian students)
Also check our Scholarships section for current openings.
4. Stay Updated with Trusted Sources
Avoid misinformation. Follow verified platforms:
- ASUU Official Twitter
- Federal Ministry of Education
- National dailies: Punch, Guardian, Daily Trust
What the Federal Government Is Saying
As of July 9, 2025, the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, stated during a media roundtable that:
“The Federal Government is working towards resolving all outstanding issues with university unions. Dialogue is ongoing and stakeholders will be carried along.”
However, no concrete timeline was provided. This has fueled skepticism among union leaders and students alike.
What’s Next?
Here are possible scenarios in the next few weeks:
- Best Case: Government meets ASUU/NASU halfway, and institutions resume without a full-blown strike.
- Likely Case: ASUU embarks on a two-week warning strike, followed by negotiations.
- Worst Case: An indefinite strike begins by late July or early August, crippling academic activities.
We will continue to monitor these developments and provide verified updates on ScholarCareer.com.ng.
Final Thoughts: Staying Prepared Amid Uncertainty
Strikes in Nigerian universities are an unfortunate but recurring challenge. While we hope for a resolution, Nigerian students must learn to adapt and stay proactive. Whether it’s learning a new skill, applying for a scholarship, or preparing ahead academically, your resilience will define your success beyond these disruptions.
Keep checking our Education News section for real-time updates.
For questions or tips from other students, use the comment section or email us at scholarcareerng@gmail.com.
Stay informed. Stay ready.
