More than 200 professors and other lecturers have reportedly left Kaduna State University (KASU). The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), KASU chapter, blamed poor working conditions for the mass departures. The union also cited the delay in implementing the 2025 Federal Government-ASUU Agreement. According to ASUU-KASU chairman Abubakar Abdullahi, the agreement took effect in January 2026. However, KASU has yet to begin its implementation. He said the delay had made staff among the least-paid university workers in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, ASUU-KASU has given the university authorities a two-week ultimatum. The union wants the 2025 agreement fully implemented and domesticated. Abdullahi said the union had written to the university management and Governing Council. It also contacted the state governor and other stakeholders. Despite these efforts, the union said no satisfactory action had been taken. Abdullahi warned that further delays would create salary arrears dating back to January 2026.
The union said the situation is already hurting the university. Experienced academics, including professors, have reportedly left the institution. ASUU warned that replacing such skilled workers could take years. In addition, the union raised several unresolved issues affecting its members. These include excessive workload, promotion arrears and death benefits. Other concerns include pension remittances, group life insurance and outstanding 25 and 35 per cent wage awards.
Consequently, ASUU-KASU may begin a total and indefinite strike if nothing changes. The union’s Congress reached the decision during a meeting on August 12, 2026. This followed the ASUU National Executive Council meeting in Abuja. Abdullahi said the two-week ultimatum follows established industrial dispute procedures. He urged university authorities to act quickly and prevent further disruption. The union also appealed to parents and other stakeholders to intervene. Its goal is to resolve the crisis and keep academic activities running at KASU.
