The Joint Action Committee JAC of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions NASU and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities SSANU has announced an indefinite strike set to begin on the night of Sunday, October 27, 2024.
This move is expected to disrupt administrative activities across Nigerian public universities, marking a new chapter in the unions push for the resolution of unpaid salary disputes.
In a statement addressed to NASU and SSANU branch chairmen at universities and inter-university centers, the JAC explained that the strike had been initially scheduled for October 23 but was rescheduled to allow for the Trade Group Council meeting of NASU, held on October 23 and 24 at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. The rescheduling, according to the JAC, is aimed at ensuring all branches are coordinated and prepared for a unified response.
Government Inaction Prompts Strike Action
Despite recent assurances from the federal government, including President Bola Tinubu’s approval for a partial release of the four months of withheld salaries, the unions argue that progress has stalled due to inaction from the Minister of Finance. NASU General Secretary, Prince Peters Adeyemi, and SSANU President, Comrade Mohammed Ibrahim, expressed disappointment over the government’s delayed response and questioned its commitment to resolving the issue.
The circular noted, It is on record that the JAC of NASU and SSANU has issued multiple notices to the government to address this unresolved issue. However, the sincerity of the government in meeting our demands remains questionable. Despite efforts to negotiate in good faith, our members have faced financial hardship due to the prolonged delay in salary payments.
Strategic Coordination and Preparation for Strike
The circular outlined that the decision to begin the strike on October 27 allows NASU branch officers to be present at their respective campuses for adequate coordination and unity between NASU and SSANU as they launch the indefinite strike.
We have implemented this strategic timing for better coordination and to ensure that both unions are aligned. The midnight strike commencement allows our branch officers the necessary preparation time to initiate the strike effectively, JAC explained.
A Call to Action for Union Members
JAC reaffirmed its commitment to achieving ultimate victory on behalf of its members. In light of the impending strike, the leadership called on NASU and SSANU members to remain resolute and committed to the cause. The unions expressed gratitude to members for their patience and steadfast commitment to the union’s struggle, signaling a determination to see the issue through to a satisfactory resolution.
This indefinite strike by NASU and SSANU underscores the increasing discontent within the Nigerian public university system and highlights unresolved financial challenges that continue to impact non-teaching staff. The unions insist that without a fair resolution, the integrity and operational stability of Nigeria’s public universities remain at risk.
As the strike commences, the Nigerian public and university community brace for the likely disruption to academic and administrative functions, while union leaders remain hopeful for meaningful action from the government.