The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has raised concerns about a potential nationwide university strike in 2024, attributing it to the education sector’s insufficient budget and low compensation for staff. ASUU Chairman, Prof. Emmanuel Oshodeke, highlighted on Monday that despite President Bola Tinubu’s promise during the recent campaign to elevate the education sector’s funding to 15% or more, the 2024 education budget was declared at N2.18 trillion, comprising only 7.9% of the total budget.
Prof. Oshodeke pointed out that the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation advocates a 26% benchmark allocation for the education sector in member countries. Expressing disappointment, he stated that Nigeria currently has the lowest pay for professors globally. He emphasized that for meaningful growth in the sector, it is crucial to increase the budget and align with international standards.
The ASUU chairman underscored that the allocated budget figure has remained the same throughout the Buhari administration. He warned that without a budget increase, the sector is unlikely to see any positive transformation. Oshodeke urged the administration to engage with cabinet members and enhance the education budget to at least 15% of the total budget.
In conclusion, Oshodeke expressed concern that with the current 7% allocation for education, there would be minimal impact on the sector, reminiscent of the previous Buhari administration. While acknowledging President Tinubu’s campaign promise, he urged for tangible improvements; otherwise, ASUU would mobilize for action in the following year. Oshodeke highlighted disparities, noting that Oyo State allocates 15% and Enugu State budgets 32% for education, contrasting sharply with the federal government’s allocation of less than eight percent.
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