Academic activities at three state-owned universities in Lagos remain suspended as the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) continues its strike, now in its second week. The strike, which commenced on September 15, has affected the Lagos State University (LASU), Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), and Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH).

ASUU has stated that it will maintain the strike until the Lagos State Government implements the December 2025 agreement reached between the Federal Government and the union. Dr. Oluwaseun Babalola, the Coordinator of ASUU-LASU, expressed frustration over the lack of communication from the state government, noting that there has been no dialogue initiated by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who oversees the three institutions.

"We have not really got anything positive from the government," Babalola told Vanguard. He emphasized that the union had made several attempts to engage with the government but had yet to receive a satisfactory response. The union's demands include the full domestication and implementation of the 2025 ASUU/Federal Government agreement, which they believe is crucial for resolving the ongoing dispute.

The decision to strike followed months of what ASUU described as “patient and constructive engagement” with the state government, which ultimately failed to address their concerns. The union has expressed regret over the disruption caused to students and their families, but insists that the strike is necessary to protect the integrity of the university system and improve educational quality.

Babalola highlighted that other state governors have responded positively to similar demands from ASUU in their regions, urging the Lagos State Government to expedite action on the implementation of the agreement. He appealed for a return to the negotiating table, stating that timely implementation could alleviate the hardships faced by union members.

The prolonged closure of these institutions has raised significant concerns among students and parents alike, with many anxious about the impact on their education. Babalola reassured students that the union is committed to their welfare and is striving for a better academic environment. He also called on parents to support the union's cause, emphasizing that many lecturers are also parents who understand the challenges faced by families within the education system.

As the strike continues without any sign of resolution, the future of academic activities at LASU, LASUED, and LASUSTECH remains uncertain. Unless the Lagos State Government engages in meaningful dialogue with ASUU, the disruption to education in these institutions is likely to persist.