Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has approved the full implementation of the 2025 agreement between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) for staff of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), beginning in January 2027.
The university’s Public Relations Officer, Dr Harrison Madubueze, announced the approval in a statement, saying the decision was communicated to Vice-Chancellor Professor Kate Azuka Omenugha through the Governing Council Chairman, Professor Peter Onwualu.
Omenugha expressed appreciation to Soludo for fulfilling his earlier assurances, commending him on behalf of the university’s management, Senate, staff and students. She also acknowledged the contributions of the institution’s labour unions.
According to the statement, full implementation of the agreement had remained outstanding under previous administrations.
The approval underscores the role of state governments in determining the implementation of agreements on staff welfare in state-owned universities, even when such agreements are negotiated between the Federal Government and ASUU.
The 2025 agreement addresses longstanding concerns over university funding, remuneration and working conditions, which have contributed to recurring disputes between the union and government authorities.
The Anambra State Government said the decision was consistent with its commitment to improving the welfare of educators and strengthening the university’s institutional capacity.
Implementation of the agreement at COOU is scheduled to commence in January 2027.
