The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has again threatened a nationwide strike over the government’s failure to honour old agreements. However, many Nigerians now see the frequent strikes as a direct violation of students’ rights.
Education watchers argue that students and parents are not just learners and sponsors, but consumers in Nigeria’s education market. Since students pay school fees and other charges every session, they expect to get value in return, proper lectures, access to facilities, and a school calendar that runs smoothly.
Nevertheless, constant strikes usually turn a four-year course into six or seven years, spoiling career plans and wasting the money already spent. That is why many parents are now going for private universities. Although they are costly, they offer steady academic calendars, modern facilities, and enhanced security. Meanwhile, public universities, which millions depend on, continue to deny students this basic consumer contract.
Speaking with frustration, a 300-level Law student at UNILAG said, “If ASUU goes on strike again, it means we are paying for nothing. In every sense, that is cheating.”
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