The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Taraba State University, Jalingo branch, has agreed to a two-week extension requested by the Taraba State Government to address the union's outstanding demands. This has led to the suspension of the planned industrial action. ASUU is seeking full implementation of the 2025 Federal Government of Nigeria/ASUU agreement and other provisions affecting the university and its academic staff.
ASUU-TSU branch had issued a 14-day ultimatum to Governor Agbu Kefas and the state government on August 13, 2026, demanding full implementation of the agreement. The ultimatum expired on August 26 without what the union described as concrete and verifiable action from the government. However, ASUU refrained from embarking on industrial action due to the university's combined convocation ceremony scheduled within the period.
A second 14-day ultimatum was issued, running from September 14 to September 28, 2026. The union's chairman, Dr. Joshua Garba Mbave, stated that an official communication was received from the state government requesting an additional two weeks to address the outstanding demands. The national leadership of ASUU directed the branch to consider and accept the extension.
The ASUU-TSU branch convened an emergency meeting where members unanimously agreed to grant the government the additional two weeks. However, Dr. Mbave warned that the union would embark on industrial action if the government failed to meet its demands at the expiration of the extended period.
Dr. Mbave commended the Taraba State Government for its efforts towards resolving issues affecting the university. He urged the government to demonstrate commitment and sincerity in implementing the agreements, emphasizing that fulfilling the outstanding obligations would help maintain industrial harmony and ensure an uninterrupted academic calendar.
The ASUU chairman's statement highlights the importance of the government's commitment to resolving the issues. The union's demands are centered on improving the working conditions and welfare of academic staff at Taraba State University. A meeting between the government and ASUU is expected to take place within the two-week extension period.
The outcome of the meeting will determine the next course of action for ASUU. If the government meets its demands, the union has agreed to suspend its planned industrial action. However, failure to meet the demands may lead to the union embarking on strike, potentially disrupting academic activities at the university.
Key points
- ASUU grants Taraba State Government two-week extension to address outstanding demands.
- The union suspends planned industrial action following the government's request.
- ASUU warns of potential strike if demands are not met within the extended period.
