The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Federal University Lokoja Chapter, on Monday 23 February 202, paid a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja, Professor Gbenga Solomon Ibileye, to formally congratulate him on his appointment as the 4th substantive Vice-Chancellor of the institution.

The delegation, led by the Chairperson of the ASUU-FUL Chapter, Comrade Timothy Jangfa, described Professor Ibileye’s emergence as a welcome development and expressed confidence in his leadership capacity, academic pedigree, and longstanding commitment to the growth of the University. The union noted that his familiarity with the institution’s structure and culture positions him strategically to consolidate on past achievements and chart a progressive course for the University.

While congratulating the Vice-Chancellor, ASUU used the opportunity to table several pressing concerns affecting its members and the overall welfare of staff in the University. Prominent among the issues raised was the persistent transportation challenge confronting staff, particularly in accessing the University campuses. The union called for immediate interventions to ease mobility constraints and improve working conditions.

The union also appealed for a reduction in tax burdens affecting staff salaries, noting that the current deductions significantly impact members’ take-home pay. In addition, ASUU urged the new administration to prioritize the payment of outstanding allowances, especially the Earned Academic Allowance (EAA), which remains a critical component of academic staff remuneration.

Other issues presented included the payment of Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance (CATA) and other related entitlements, which the union said are essential for promoting research, professional development, and academic excellence within the institution. The union emphasized that addressing these concerns would boost staff morale, enhance productivity, and strengthen industrial harmony on campus.

In his response, Professor Ibileye expressed profound appreciation to ASUU for the visit and for their show of solidarity. He thanked the union for the confidence reposed in him and acknowledged the pivotal role ASUU plays in safeguarding academic standards and staff welfare in Nigerian universities.

The Vice-Chancellor assured the union that his administration would operate an open-door policy anchored on dialogue, transparency, and inclusiveness. He emphasized that continuous engagement with stakeholders, particularly ASUU, would remain a cornerstone of his leadership approach.

Professor Ibileye pledged that the concerns raised by the union would receive prompt attention. He stressed that through sustained dialogue and collaborative problem-solving, the identified challenges would be systematically addressed. According to him, industrial peace and mutual respect are critical for the growth and stability of the University.

Reiterating his commitment to staff welfare, the Vice-Chancellor declared that his administration would be a "listening administration,” underscoring his resolve to work closely with the union in advancing the collective interests of the University community. He assured members that no genuine concern would be ignored and that efforts would be made to improve working conditions within the limits of available resources.

The meeting ended on a cordial note, with both parties expressing optimism about a new era of cooperation, mutual trust, and progressive engagement at Federal University Lokoja. Stakeholders described the interaction as a positive step toward strengthening institutional governance and fostering a harmonious academic environment. See more picture here

Signed
Dr. Tósìn Ọlágúnjú
Director, Directorate of Strategic Communication and Corporate Documentation
Federal University Lokoja