Another ASUU strike — again. It’s the news most Nigerian students and parents prayed would never resurface, yet here we are. On Sunday, October 12, 2025, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) declared a two-week warning strike, citing the Federal Government’s failure to fulfill past agreements. The strike officially took effect at midnight on Monday, October 13, across public universities in Nigeria, affecting millions of students nationwide.
ASUU’s president, Prof. Chris Piwuna, explained that the decision followed several ignored deadlines and unfulfilled negotiations. He warned that if the government fails to act within the two-week window, the union may escalate the strike to a full nationwide shutdown of public universities.
The union’s primary grievances include unpaid salaries, delayed promotion arrears, poor funding for universities, and the stalled renegotiation of the 2009 ASUU–FGN agreement. Meanwhile, the Congress of University Academics (CONUA) has stated that its members will continue working, choosing not to participate in the strike.
While many students had hoped this session would run smoothly, uncertainty continues over the academic calendar. Students across the country are left asking: “What next?” But here’s the truth — you don’t have to let this strike derail your growth.
The Mindset Shift: Don’t Waste This Time
ASUU strikes are no longer a surprise in Nigeria; they’ve become a recurring part of the education system. But this time, you don’t have to let it pause your dreams or ambitions.
While some families can send their children abroad to avoid delays, many students come from humble homes, and that’s perfectly fine. It doesn’t mean your future is limited. Instead of scrolling endlessly on social media or complaining, view this strike as a pause with a purpose — an opportunity to invest in yourself before school resumes.
Every strike creates two types of students:
- Those who wait for things to go back to normal.
- Those who return as better, smarter, and more valuable individuals.
If you want to be in the second group, here’s what you should be doing right now.
1. Take Advantage of Free Online Courses (and Get Certified)
Learning no longer starts and ends in the classroom. Platforms like Google Digital Garage, Coursera, Udemy, and Alison offer free and affordable online courses, many with certificates that are recognized globally.
Focus on practical, high-demand skills like digital marketing, project management, data analysis, coding, or product design, skills that not only enhance your CV but also open doors to freelancing and remote work. For example, completing a Google Digital Marketing certificate can make you more marketable and even help you earn from gigs while waiting for classes to resume.
2. Learn a Skill You Can Monetize
Don’t just study for the sake of learning; focus on skills that can generate income while you wait for lectures to resume. Popular skills include:
- Graphic design
- Copywriting
- Video editing
- Web development
- Social media management
Start with free YouTube tutorials, practice consistently, and then move to paid gigs when you’re confident. Even earning ₦20,000–₦50,000 monthly from freelancing can give you financial independence and a head start over your peers.
3. Volunteer or Intern (Physically or Remotely)
Not every opportunity comes with immediate pay, but experience is currency. Volunteering or interning builds your CV, network, and skills.
Websites like Jobberman, LinkedIn, UN Volunteers (UNV), and local NGOs regularly post openings suitable for students. Helping a small business manage social media or organize campaigns counts as valuable experience..
4. Build Your Personal Brand or Side Hustle
Every student has something they’re passionate about — it could be fashion, music, tech, motivation, or campus entertainment. Use this strike period to turn your passion into a brand or side hustle.
- Start a TikTok, YouTube channel, or blog based on your interests.
- Offer services or products: sell thrift clothes, manage social media pages, offer photography, or provide editing services.
- Post consistently; you don’t need fancy equipment — your phone and creativity are enough.
With time, you could grow a following or income stream that continues even after school resumes.
5. Network and Build Connections That Matter
Success isn’t just about what you know — it’s also about who you know. Join WhatsApp, Telegram, or Discord communities for tech, writing, or content creation. Engage on LinkedIn, offer value, and learn from those already building careers or businesses.
One meaningful connection could lead to an internship, mentorship, or your first client. Networking now gives you a long-term advantage.
6. Focus on Self-Improvement and Mindset
The strike doesn’t have to pause your personal growth. Use this time to develop discipline, self-awareness, and a winning mindset.
- Read books like Atomic Habits, Rich Dad Poor Dad, and The Psychology of Money.
- Listen to podcasts that expand your thinking and motivate you.
- Exercise, eat well, and maintain daily routines.
- Reflect on your goals and create actionable steps.
When lectures resume, you’ll be more confident, motivated, and prepared than ever before.
7. Plan for Scholarships and Future Opportunities
If you dream of studying abroad, now is the perfect time to research schools in your target countries that offer fully funded scholarships. Check their application requirements, such as IELTS, deadlines, and necessary documents. Instead of waiting until graduation or when opportunities feel urgent, start preparing early and organizing everything in advance. By the time you’re ready to apply, you’ll already be ahead of most students, giving yourself a clear advantage.
Final Thoughts
The ASUU strike might stop lectures — but it shouldn’t stop your growth or ambitions. While others scroll endlessly or complain, use this time to upgrade your skills, build your brand, and create tangible value.
When school resumes, let your results speak louder than words. You didn’t just wait for things to change; you changed yourself.