Nigeria’s Education Minister, Olatunji Alausa, has promised that university students will not be forced out of classrooms, despite unsettled issues with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
He explained that the government is holding talks with the union to resolve disputes over funding, promotions, and unpaid entitlements. According to him, dialogue is ongoing and the focus is to keep academic activities running smoothly.
Beyond labour concerns, Alausa said the ministry is adopting new technology to fight exam malpractice. Starting November, parts of the WAEC and NECO exams will be taken on computers, with a full switch to computer-based testing expected next year. He added that support systems will be created for rural schools and students with disabilities so that no one is excluded.
At the same event, the Gender Inclusion Summit in Abuja, the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, highlighted women’s growing role in leadership. She revealed that women now head over 40% of Nigeria’s major banks and occupy 22% of executive positions, above the global average. She argued that closing gender gaps could add billions to Nigeria’s economy.
Other speakers stressed the need for inclusive policies that give more space to women, young people, and disadvantaged groups in shaping national progress.