
The Federal Government has directed vice-chancellors of all federal universities across the country to enforce the ‘No Work, No Pay’ policy on members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) currently on strike.
The directive, contained in a circular dated October 13, 2025, was signed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, and addressed to all heads of federal universities.

According to the circular, the decision is in line with the Labour Laws of the Federation, which stipulate that employees who do not perform their official duties during a strike period are not entitled to wages or allowances.
“In line with the provisions of the Labour Laws of the Federation, the Federal Government reiterates its position on the enforcement of the ‘No Work, No Pay’ policy in respect of any employee who fails to discharge his or her official duties during the period of strike action,” the circular read in part.
The document was also copied to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Pro-Chancellors of all Federal Universities, Accountant-General of the Federation, and the Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission (NUC).
ASUU members have been on strike over unresolved issues, including unpaid allowances and implementation of previous agreements with the Federal Government.
The Ministry of Education said the enforcement of the policy would ensure accountability and discourage prolonged disruptions in the university system.
