**ASUU Sounds Alarm: Tax Bill Threatens Public Education**
The Zonal Coordinator of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) Yola Zone, Dani Mamman, has issued a dire warning regarding the potential impact of the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024 on public tertiary education in Nigeria. Mamman believes that the bill’s provisions could spell disaster for the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), a critical source of support for public universities across the country. If implemented, Mamman fears that this legislation could throw the entire education system into turmoil.
**The Threat to TETFund and Public Education**
In Mamman’s view, the passage of the tax bill would result in the diversion of crucial funding away from TETFund and towards other agencies. This reallocation of resources would leave public universities struggling to function effectively, with potentially devastating consequences for academic standards, research initiatives, and overall social stability. Mamman is adamant that such a scenario would lead to a brain drain, as talented educators seek opportunities abroad, leaving Nigerian universities bereft of the expertise needed to thrive.
**A Call to Action**
ASUU is calling on the National Assembly, the government, and all relevant stakeholders to reject the tax bill and safeguard TETFund’s vital role in supporting public education. Mamman stresses the importance of unity in defending the integrity of Nigeria’s higher education system and ensuring that universities can continue to fulfill their mission as centers of learning and innovation.
**Standing Together for Education**
As the fate of public tertiary education hangs in the balance, it is clear that concerted action is needed to protect the future of Nigerian universities. The potential consequences of the tax bill are too severe to ignore, and ASUU’s impassioned plea for solidarity underscores the urgency of the situation. By standing together, we can ensure that the light of knowledge continues to shine brightly in Nigeria, illuminating the path to a brighter future for all.
