The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Taraba State University has rejected the government's review committee for tertiary institutions and staff workforce. In a press conference led by its chairman, Dr. Joshua Garba Mbave, ASUU called for the immediate implementation of the agreed remuneration framework to avoid industrial action. The union expressed concerns over prolonged delays and repeated consultations without corresponding implementation.
According to ASUU, the Taraba State Government had constituted a verification committee to examine salary structures and assess implementation levels across the North-East region. The verification exercise, which involved relevant stakeholders, culminated in a formal meeting on September 22, 2026, where the report established a 100% implementation of the applicable remuneration framework. However, ASUU rejected the government's recent review committee, citing unnecessary delays and previous agreements.
ASUU has been engaging with the Taraba State Government on the implementation of the 2025 Federal Government of Nigeria/ASUU Agreement since February 2026. The union formally submitted its position and demands to the Governing Council of Taraba State University on March 17, 2026. Despite exercising restraint, ASUU's members are frustrated with the prevailing circumstances and have legitimate demands that have not been met.
The union had granted the government a two-week extension to resolve outstanding matters, during which the government appealed to ASUU to suspend its industrial action. However, the subsequent constitution of another review committee has raised concerns that the process is being subjected to further avoidable and unjustifiable delay. ASUU's members view this development as a deliberate attempt to frustrate their efforts.
ASUU-TSU emphasized its commitment to constructive dialogue, peaceful resolution of disputes, and preservation of industrial harmony. The union's objection arises from a demonstrable sequence of prolonged delays, repeated consultations, and committee processes without corresponding implementation. ASUU called on the Taraba State Government to immediately implement the agreed remuneration framework and settle accumulated arrears.
The union also demanded that the government give due effect to the outcomes of the verification and tripartite processes already concluded and honour assurances and commitments made to the union. ASUU's position must not be misconstrued as a rejection of dialogue or lawful engagement with the government. The union has consistently demonstrated its commitment to peaceful resolution of disputes.
The development has generated deep concern among ASUU members, who are questioning whether their restraint and good-faith engagement have been properly appreciated. The union urged the government to take immediate action to address their concerns and implement the agreed remuneration framework.
Key points
- ASUU rejects government's review committee, citing unnecessary delays and previous agreements.
- The union demands immediate implementation of the agreed remuneration framework and settlement of accumulated arrears.
- ASUU emphasizes its commitment to constructive dialogue and peaceful resolution of disputes.
