Ibukun Odusote, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment on Tuesday urged Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to shelve its ongoing industrial action in the interest of the nation.
Odusote gave the charge in Abuja while addressing the delegates of the African Students Union Parliament (ASUP) led by the Speaker Kewul Abel.
Recall that negotiation meeting initiated by Adamu Adamu, Minister of Education with the ASUU National Executive Council on Monday was deadlock as the parties failed to reach a compromise.
Biodun Ogunyemi, ASUU President who spoke after the 3 hours meeting disclosed that the meeting with hold at a latter date.
Worried by the development, Odusote appealed to “ASUU members, who are also parents, that there are some sacrifices that some people have to make so that the future of our children can be secured. If our children are sitting at home at a critical time like this, with the year coming to an end, and the nation preparing for a national election.
“The tendencies that they will start running into political groups for vices engagement are high. Therefore, it is in national interest that the on-going industrial action embarked upon by ASUU be amicably resolved through social dialogue for our children to continue their educational pursuit,” she pleaded.
While appreciating the African Students Union Parliament for recognising her humble contribution to national development, Odusote said: “I want to thank you for this honour, there are many that have put in hard work and have not had the opportunity of being recognised. I thank God that this is happening and that we can see a day like this.”
Speaking further, the Permanent Secretary attributed her achievements to the contributions and support she enjoyed from members of staff both past and present.
She also tasked the student parliamentarian to pay attention to their education so that they can come out in flying colours
“There is nothing that we have achieved without the support of staff and subordinates. I never see anything I do as my contribution, it is our contributions. I encourage us to work harder and better and discourage award for money but recognition through contributions.” She affirmed.
Speaking earlier, Kewul Abel, ASUP Speaker explained that the Pan African Leadership Award for Excellence conferred on Ibukun Odusote was in recognition of the contributions to national development and vivacious fused with remarkable administrative acumen.
