The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has raised alarm over deteriorating welfare conditions in state-owned tertiary institutions in Sokoto, warning that failure to act promptly could disrupt academic activities.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, ASUU branches at Sokoto State University and Shehu Shagari University of Education expressed frustration over what they described as prolonged neglect by the authorities.
The union said repeated appeals for improved conditions have yielded no meaningful response.
The statement, jointly signed by ASUU-SSU chairperson Dr Bello Musa and SSUE counterpart Dr Shamsu Kabiru, noted that unresolved welfare concerns are already affecting industrial harmony and may soon undermine teaching and research efforts if not urgently addressed.
“These issues have lingered for too long despite several reminders… addressing them will sustain the harmonious working relationship and enhance productivity,” the statement noted.
ASUU highlighted two key demands, including the immediate implementation of the 2025 Federal Government–ASUU agreement, particularly the payment of peculiar allowances tied to teaching and research.
The union pointed out that federal universities have already begun receiving these benefits and urged the Sokoto State Government to follow suit.
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It also called for the settlement of outstanding Earned Academic Allowances (EAA) owed to lecturers for the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 academic sessions, which remain unpaid.
According to the union, academic staff in state institutions should not be excluded from benefits, especially as salary structures are centrally negotiated under Nigeria’s constitutional framework.
ASUU warned that continued delay could heighten dissatisfaction among lecturers and disrupt the academic calendar in the affected institutions.
The development underscores growing tension within Sokoto’s higher education sector, as academic unions nationwide continue to push for better funding, fair remuneration, and full implementation of agreements.
Observers say the state government’s next steps will be crucial in determining whether the situation escalates into industrial action.