The possibility of Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) calling off its indefinite industrial action is in sight.
This is as Federal Government intends to broker peace by adopting the University Transparency Academic Solution (UTAS), the payment platform proposed by ASUU.
Speaking on a Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday, Chris Ngige, Minister of Labour and Employment confirmed that government had agreed to try out UTAS since the union turned down the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS).
Ngige a medical doctor said National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) had completed the first phase of UTAS assessment, expressing optimism that talks will be concluded next week.
The former Anambra State Governor said the government would consider “options” to stop ASUU from continuing its industrial action.
“There are so many options left. We have the labour laws and I have options left to me in the labour laws. I have other channels,” he said.
Ngige complained that the union was not considering the challenges their demands would create.
The minister said even if countries go to war, they eventually meet at the negotiation table.
“I’m inviting them (ASUU) next week, we are doing side meetings on our part. I’m collating responses from the Accountant-General of the Federation’s Office and everybody who has something to do with this matter.”
On the return of students to classes, Ngige said he was hopeful that it would not take long.
