After spending more than two months at home due to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) strike, students of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) can now return to their classrooms following the suspension of the industrial action. The strike, which started on May 19, 2026, was officially suspended after an emergency congress of the union, paving the way for lectures and other academic activities to resume across all campuses.
The breakthrough came after Governor Bassey Otu stepped into the crisis and held several meetings with the university management, ASUU leaders and student representatives. During the discussions, the governor assured the lecturers that his administration would address the major issues affecting staff welfare and the smooth running of the university. These assurances convinced the union to suspend the strike while discussions continue.
Before the strike was called off, thousands of students had been stranded at home as academic activities came to a standstill. The lecturers had embarked on the strike over issues including unpaid allowances, salary arrears, poor funding of the institution, delayed payment of salaries and other welfare concerns.
As part of efforts to find a lasting solution, Governor Otu also set up a technical committee to review the university's working conditions, staff welfare and governance structure. He further promised to improve infrastructure within the institution, including support for the university's medical centre and road network, while maintaining continuous dialogue with all stakeholders.
The suspension of the strike has been welcomed by students, parents and education stakeholders across Cross River State, who believe it will help restore stability to the academic calendar. With lectures expected to resume immediately, many students are preparing to return to campus after weeks of uncertainty.
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