The Congress of University Academics has attributed improvements in academic stability across Nigerian public universities to its sustained advocacy for uninterrupted academic activities and constructive engagement with stakeholders since its recognition in 2023.

CONUA President Prof. Niyi Sumonu told the News Agency of Nigeria in an exclusive interview in Abuja on Sunday that the union had consistently promoted industrial harmony across public universities since gaining official recognition, noting it had already made meaningful contributions to addressing challenges confronting the university system before that recognition was formalised.

Sumonu, an Associate Professor of Physics and Engineering at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, said the existence of multiple academic unions had enriched discussions and broadened the range of solutions available to higher education stakeholders.

"Pluralism in unionism brings different ideas and solutions to problems. Our being on board has added to the voices on how to address issues in the academic environment," he said.

The CONUA president confirmed that the union had concluded discussions with the Federal Government over welfare improvements tied to the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement between the government and university unions, and was awaiting the signing of a draft agreement.

"We had discussions with the government based on the 2009 agreement, and we already have a draft waiting for signing," Sumonu said, adding that CONUA should be recognised as a distinct party in the renegotiation process, given that it came into existence after that agreement was reached.

On the rising migration of Nigerian academics abroad, Sumonu described brain drain as evidence of persistent challenges within the sector. He called on the Federal Government to improve working conditions, remuneration and research facilities to retain experienced academics.

"Universities cannot develop without proper funding. Government should see education as an investment and not a business where quick gains are expected," he said.

Sumonu advocated stronger partnerships between universities and industry as alternative funding sources, arguing that such collaborations would strengthen research and innovation while reducing dependence on government allocations.

He also called for specialised universities with clearly defined areas of excellence to sharpen global competitiveness.

"We must have universities known for specific areas of specialisation. This will improve quality and global competitiveness," he said.

The union president warned that frequent policy changes had hampered the growth of Nigeria's education sector and urged successive administrations to commit to consistent, sustainable reforms. He also appealed for the payment of outstanding entitlements owed to university workers.