By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has called for urgent attention to welfare and administrative concerns affecting lecturers in Sokoto State-owned universities, noting that timely intervention would help sustain academic stability.

Speaking at a joint press conference on Wednesday, ASUU branches at Sokoto State University and Shehu Shagari University of Education appealed to the Sokoto State Government to address a range of issues impacting staff in the two institutions.

The union said it had previously communicated its concerns to the universities’ managements and the state Ministry for Higher Education, and expressed hope that ongoing engagement would lead to constructive resolution.

According to ASUU, the matters raised relate to staff welfare, institutional processes, and the smooth running of academic activities. It added that addressing the concerns would further strengthen the working relationship between the government and academic staff.

Among the issues highlighted is the implementation of the 2025 agreement between ASUU and the Federal Government, particularly provisions relating to allowances for teaching and research responsibilities. The union noted that federal universities have commenced implementation and encouraged similar consideration at the state level.

ASUU also referenced pending Earned Academic Allowance (EAA) for lecturers, indicating that staff at Sokoto State University and Shehu Shagari University of Education are awaiting payments covering recent academic sessions.

In addition, the union raised concerns about the status of certain deductions and cooperative contributions, expressing optimism that relevant authorities would clarify and address the matter.

The union further noted the importance of establishing a Governing Council for Shehu Shagari University of Education, describing it as a key component of institutional administration under existing regulations.

Other issues mentioned include promotion-related matters and salary adjustments, as well as the implementation of annual increments.

While reaffirming its commitment to industrial harmony, ASUU appealed to stakeholders, including traditional leaders and citizens of Sokoto State, to support efforts aimed at resolving the concerns.

The union expressed confidence that continued dialogue and timely government action would ensure uninterrupted academic activities and promote the development of higher education in the state.