The University of Lagos (UNILAG) chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has announced the commencement of an indefinite strike, citing the payment of what it described as “amputated” salaries to lecturers for January and February 2026.
The decision was contained in a communiqué issued after an emergency congress meeting of the union. The statement was signed by the branch chairperson, Dr. Idou Kehinde, and the secretary, Adesina Arikawe, who said the strike would begin Wednesday, March 11, 2026, and would continue until the university management meets the union’s demands.
Reason for the strike
According to ASUU, lecturers received incomplete salary payments for two consecutive months. The union alleged that the university administration cut key allowances attached to the salaries of academic staff.
The communiqué stated that lecturers at the Akoka campus were paid without Earned Academic Allowances (EAA), while those at the Idi-Araba campus did not receive both Earned Academic Allowances (EAA) and the Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance (CATA).
ASUU described the deductions as unfair and unacceptable, accusing the university administration of implementing the payments unilaterally without proper consultation with the union.
Withdrawal of services
As part of the industrial action, the union directed its members to withdraw all academic services, meaning lectures, academic supervision, and other teaching activities would be suspended indefinitely.
ASUU insisted that the strike would only be called off after the full payment of the January and February 2026 salaries owed to its members.
Background to the salary dispute
The strike comes months after a renegotiated agreement between the Federal Government and ASUU, which included a 40 percent upward review of academic staff salaries and the introduction of new allowances under the Consolidated University Academic Staff Salary (CONUASS) structure.
However, challenges in implementing the new salary structure and allowances have reportedly led to delays and inconsistencies in payment across some institutions, including UNILAG.
Impact on students
The strike is expected to disrupt academic activities at the university, affecting lectures, research work, and the overall academic calendar. Students and stakeholders have been urged to monitor developments as discussions between the union and university management are expected to continue.
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