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ASUU Raises Alarm Over Declining University Standards, Calls for Urgent Reforms

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By Christabel Diedemise

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is a Nigerian labour union that represents academic staff in public universities nationwide. Established in 1978, the union seeks to safeguard the interests, welfare and career progression of lecturers.

ASUU is known for engaging the Federal Government on matters relating to educational funding, staff remuneration, university autonomy and working conditions in the university system. Over the years, the union has embarked on several industrial actions to draw attention to persistent challenges and funding shortfalls in public universities.

Recently, our reporter secured an exclusive interview with the Chairman of ASUU, Delta State University Branch, Comrade Paul Opone.

Speaking on the union’s objectives, ASUU officials said the organisation maintains a common goal across Nigerian universities: protecting members’ welfare while ensuring that universities remain conducive for staff and students. The union said its advocacy contributed to the establishment of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) and the implementation of needs assessment projects in public universities. It stated that over 95 per cent of educational interventions in the institutions are reportedly funded through TETFund.

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The union said an agreement signed in 2025 has not been fully implemented in federal universities, while state-owned institutions, including Delta State University, are yet to adopt it entirely. ASUU described the situation as a concern affecting the morale and productivity of academic staff.

To address the issues, the union said it continues to engage governments, university councils and administrators through dialogue. ASUU stated that documents containing its demands and recommendations have been submitted to the Delta State Government, and it hopes the agreement will be implemented.

Beyond welfare advocacy, ASUU said it supports educational development through sponsorship programmes. Through TETFund, the union sponsors lecturers undertaking master’s and PhD programmes, and also provides scholarships for students.

According to the union, the Delta State University branch awarded scholarships to 11 students last year, while the national body supported two students in the institution. ASUU said education remains a priority area.

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On public perceptions of industrial action, ASUU said it should be regarded as a ‘trouble-shooting’ body rather than a ‘trouble-making’ union. The leadership said strike action is adopted only after sustained attempts at dialogue with government.

The union explained that warnings and negotiations usually precede any strike declaration. It said industrial action is taken when it considers that government has not responded positively.

ASUU also recalled initiatives introduced to strengthen the education sector, including programmes initiated during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo aimed at advancing research and innovation in Nigerian universities.

The union called on government to adopt modern approaches to educational development. It expressed concern over what it described as a lack of patriotism among some political leaders, noting that many final-year research projects remain unused in university libraries instead of being developed into practical innovations.

Reaffirming its position, ASUU said no nation can achieve meaningful growth without significant investment in education, adding that the sector remains a drive.

The author, Christabel Diedermise, is a 200 level student of Mass Communication at Delta State University, Abraka.

Abraka Metro

Academic Activities Intensify Across DELSU Abraka Campuses 1 and 2

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By Akpiri Benita

Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, has remained busy with academic and student activities across Campuses (Sites) 1 and 2 as the second semester progresses. Students have continued attending lectures, preparing for examinations, participating in research, and taking part in campus programs designed to improve learning and student welfare.

One of the most discussed issues on both campuses in recent weeks has been the condition of the night reading halls. Students using the facilities at Sites 1 and 2 have appealed to the university management for improved electricity, better lighting, and upgraded study facilities. Many students said the reading halls remain important for exam preparation, especially during evening study sessions. 

Academic activities have continued without interruption, with lecture halls recording strong attendance as students complete coursework, practical sessions, seminars, and departmental assignments. Libraries and ICT centers have also remained active as students prepare for continuous assessments and examinations. 

The university administration has also continued implementing academic and administrative updates, including appointments of heads of departments and other institutional activities aimed at strengthening teaching and learning across the university. 

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Students on Campus 2 have continued to make use of administrative offices, the university library, and ICT facilities for registration, academic inquiries, and project work. Student organizations have also been organizing meetings and leadership activities that encourage participation in campus life.

Across both campuses, security personnel have maintained regular patrols while environmental sanitation exercises have helped keep lecture areas and walkways clean. Students have also been encouraged to observe campus regulations and contribute to maintaining a peaceful learning environment.

As the semester advances, students remain focused on achieving academic success while calling for continued improvements in campus infrastructure, particularly reliable electricity and better study facilities. Many believe that these improvements will further enhance the quality of learning and student life at Delta State University, Abraka. 

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Abraka Metro

SUG: The Pillar Of Justice, Unity, And Student Welfare In DELSU

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By Ajirioghene Ederehor

In every higher institution, the Students’ Union Government (SUG) serves as the collective voice of the student body, championing students’ rights and promoting their welfare. At Delta State University (DELSU), the role of the SUG extends far beyond organising social activities or coordinating campus events. It has become a symbol of justice, unity, and student representation, making its contributions to the university community impossible to overlook.

Justice remains one of the fundamental pillars upon which the SUG operates. Every student deserves to be treated fairly, regardless of their background, faculty, department, or level of study. The union serves as an intermediary between students and the university administration, ensuring that legitimate complaints and concerns are addressed through appropriate channels. Whether advocating for fair treatment, engaging the university management on student-related issues, or promoting peaceful dialogue during challenging moments, the SUG continues to uphold the principles of fairness and accountability.

Beyond justice, the SUG plays a significant role in fostering unity within the DELSU community. Delta State University is home to students from different ethnic groups, religions, cultures, and social backgrounds. Despite these differences, the union consistently promotes peaceful coexistence and mutual respect through cultural festivals, sporting competitions, orientation programmes, leadership conferences, and other student-centred activities. These initiatives strengthen relationships among students and create an atmosphere where diversity is celebrated rather than a source of division.

Student welfare remains at the heart of the union’s responsibilities. From advocating for improved learning conditions to organising health campaigns, educational seminars, skill acquisition programmes, and community service initiatives, the SUG continually seeks ways to improve students’ overall experience on campus. Programmes such as free medical outreaches, awareness campaigns, and empowerment initiatives demonstrate the union’s commitment to ensuring that students thrive both academically and personally.

Student Feedback

Theophilus Daniel, a 100-level Political Science student, said in an interview: “The SUG is really doing an awesome job, especially in the area of student welfare. They take it very seriously, and that is highly appreciated. May God continue to uplift them in Jesus’ name.”

Another student, Ryan Peter, a 200-level Education student, also shared her opinion: “Since I gained admission into this great institution called DELSU, the SUG has positively impacted my studies through educational programmes and activities that broaden students’ knowledge. They are doing wonderful work, and I encourage them to continue. Their reward is close.”

The SUG also serves as a platform for leadership development. Student leaders gain practical experience in governance, negotiation, communication, conflict resolution, and public service. These experiences prepare them for greater responsibilities beyond the university and contribute to the development of responsible citizens who can make meaningful contributions to society.

However, the effectiveness of any Students’ Union depends not only on its elected executives but also on the active participation of the students it represents. Constructive engagement, responsible criticism, and collective support enable the union to perform its duties more effectively while remaining accountable to the student body.

As DELSU continues to grow as one of Nigeria’s leading universities, the importance of a vibrant and responsive Students’ Union Government cannot be overstated. The SUG remains a vital institution that protects students’ interests, promotes peaceful coexistence, and works tirelessly to improve campus life. Its commitment to justice, unity, and student welfare continues to strengthen the university community and inspire confidence among the students it serves.

Indeed, the Students’ Union Government is more than a representative body. It is the pillar upon which justice, unity, and student welfare stand at Delta State University. By remaining committed to these ideals, the SUG will continue to shape a stronger, more inclusive, and more progressive DELSU for generations to come.

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Abraka Metro

DELSU SUG Successfully Concludes SUG Week

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By Deborah Efetobor

The Students’ Union Government (SUG) of Delta State University (DELSU) has successfully wrapped up its annual flagship event, SUG Week. The Synergy, after a vibrant nine-day celebration that energized students across the Abraka main campus and other campuses.

The programme, held from July 4 to July 12, 2026, featured a diverse lineup of activities aimed at promoting unity, talent development, and student growth.

Key highlights included a grand rally and praise festival, intellectual debate competitions, sports finals, cultural fiesta, a trade fair for student entrepreneurs, suya/bole night, pageantry, and a grand Award Night to honour outstanding students and leaders.

Speaking on the event, organizers noted that the theme “The Synergy” was carefully chosen to emphasize collective participation, collaboration, and shared purpose within the student community.

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The week provided platforms for networking, entertainment, cultural expression, sports, advocacy, and business opportunities, allowing students to connect, showcase their talents, and actively contribute to campus life.

This year’s edition further demonstrates the current SUG administration’s strong commitment to student welfare and vibrant campus engagement.

The union has sustained several initiatives, including the renovation of the SUG Secretariat and other projects targeted at improving the overall student experience.

Students and university stakeholders have commended the well-organized programme for fostering a strong sense of belonging and encouraging development beyond academics. Notably, the week recorded no major incidents, reflecting a peaceful and successful execution.

READ ALSO: DELSU VC Reassures Students On Improved Water Supply In Eco Hostel

The DELSU SUG continues to play an active role in campus advocacy, with indications of more student-focused programmes in the coming months

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