The development surrounding ASUU UNIJOS declares indefinite strike has forced a complete shutdown of academic activities at the University of Jos, following an industrial action by the Academic Staff Union of Universities at the institution.
The strike, which began on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, was announced after a congress of union members who cited unresolved financial obligations and deteriorating welfare conditions. The lecturers accused the federal government of failing to implement previously agreed terms, particularly in relation to salary payments and allowances.
Addressing the situation, the branch chairperson, Jurbe Molwus, stated that the decision to embark on an indefinite strike became necessary after prolonged dissatisfaction among academic staff. He noted that several months of salary arrears linked to the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System remain unpaid, while consistent deductions have significantly reduced lecturers’ earnings.
The union also raised concerns over the non payment of promotion arrears and outstanding earned academic allowances, describing the situation as unsustainable for its members. According to ASUU, the financial strain has made it increasingly difficult for lecturers to meet basic needs and maintain professional standards.
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In addition to welfare issues, the union highlighted the deteriorating condition of infrastructure within the university. Overcrowded lecture halls, poorly equipped laboratories, and inadequate teaching facilities were cited as major challenges affecting the quality of education. ASUU emphasized that the strike is not only about staff welfare but also about preserving the standard of public university education in Nigeria.
As a result of the strike, all academic activities, including lectures, examinations, and supervision, have been suspended indefinitely. The university management has expressed concern over the disruption to the academic calendar, noting that the institution was already operating under a fragile schedule.
Students have been left in uncertainty, with many beginning to vacate the campus amid fears of a prolonged shutdown. Meanwhile, there has been no official response from the federal government addressing the specific demands of the union.
Education analysts warn that the situation could have wider implications if similar grievances in other federal universities are not addressed promptly. The union has called on relevant authorities to take immediate action, stressing that continued neglect of academic welfare could further destabilize the education sector.
For now, the University of Jos remains effectively closed as the ASUU UNIJOS declares indefinite strike enters its initial phase, leaving the academic future of thousands of students uncertain.