The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has begun a nationwide mobilisation of its members to update them on the discussions between the union and the Federal Government, before deciding its next line of action.
Although the national body of ASUU has kept mum to enquiries regarding its directives to have a lecture-free day in government universities across the country, a member of the union confirmed to newsmen that ASUU chairmen in all its branches have been directed to hold congresses and suspend lecturing on the day they choose for the congress.
ASUU and the Federal Government have been at loggerheads over welfare issues of members and the condition of universities across the country.
President Muhammadu Buhari had on February 1 said that the Federal Government will honour promises made to the union to prevent disruptive strikes, encourage uninterrupted academic programmes and improve funding of educational institutions.
The President commended the leadership of Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) for intervening in the year-long strike by ASUU and holding consultations with the parties, saying no society which wishes itself well neglects its educational system and all its component parts.
He urged the council to tell ASUU that his administration regards them and the service they provide to the nation very highly.