THE Academy of Management Nigeria (TAMN) has expressed deep concern over the ongoing industrial action by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the recent directive from the Federal Government enforcing the “No Work, No Pay” policy across federal universities.
In a statement issued on Monday, October 13, 2025, and signed by Professor Samaila Mande, FAMN, President of TAMN made available to News Point Niigeria, the Academy called for urgent, fair, and empathetic dialogue between the government and the university lecturers to avert further disruption of academic activities in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.
The Academy, an institution committed to promoting sound management practices across academia, industry, and governance — said the handling of the crisis should be guided by wisdom, empathy, and respect for human capital, describing education as the “cornerstone of national growth.”
“The management of human capital, especially within the education sector, requires tact, empathy, and a commitment to fairness,” the statement read.
“While we recognize the importance of adherence to labour laws and institutional discipline, the government must take concrete and timely steps toward resolving the lingering issues that have led to repeated disruptions in the university system.”
Professor Mande noted that the welfare of academic staff and the sanctity of collective agreements are non-negotiable pillars of industrial harmony in any progressive nation.
He warned that continued breakdowns in dialogue risk undermining the integrity of Nigeria’s higher education system.
“The welfare of academic staff, the integrity of collective agreements, and the stability of our educational system are critical to national development and should not be compromised,” he said.
TAMN also appealed to ASUU to continue to engage constructively and keep communication lines open, emphasizing that the union’s cause must remain tied to national interest rather than confrontation.
“We equally call on ASUU to continue engaging constructively and to maintain open channels of dialogue in pursuit of lasting peace. The future of our students and the global competitiveness of the Nigerian university system depend on a swift and just resolution,” the statement added.
The Academy emphasized that the moment calls for more than just ending another strike, it requires rebuilding trust, strengthening policy implementation, and repositioning higher education as a vital driver of national development.
Professor Mande concluded by urging all stakeholders, including government, academic unions, and management authorities, to act responsibly in the collective interest of students and the nation.
“The time has come for government and all stakeholders to do the needful, not merely to end another strike, but to rebuild trust, strengthen policy implementation, and reposition higher education as the cornerstone of sustainable national growth,” he stated.
