The Joint Action Committee of non-teaching staff unions, consisting of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, will on Monday begin an indefinite strike.
Administrative operations in Nigeria’s public universities are expected to come to a halt starting tomorrow, as the action is in response to the non-payment of four months of withheld salaries for their members.
The leadership of NASU and SSANU announced that the strike would commence on Sunday night, October 27, 2024.
In a circular addressed to all branch chairmen of NASU and SSANU in universities and inter-university centres, JAC explained that the decision to strike had initially been scheduled for October 23, but was delayed to coincide with a Trade Group Council meeting of NASU branches.
The circular, signed by NASU’s General Secretary, Prince Peters Adeyemi, and SSANU President, Comrade Mohammed Ibrahim, outlined that the timing change was intended to ensure effective coordination and unified action.
JAC expressed disappointment over the government’s handling of the salary dispute, despite President Bola Tinubu’s approval for 50% of the withheld four months’ salaries to be paid.
“It is on record that the JAC of NASU and SSANU has issued multiple notices to the government to redress this ugly situation. However, the sincerity of the government to our cause is in doubt,” the unions stated.
The Trade Group Council Meeting of NASU branches in universities and inter-university centres took place at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, on October 23 and 24.
With preparations for the meeting complete, JAC opted to postpone the strike to Sunday night to allow NASU branch officers to be present for the commencement.
“We have to do this strategic change in timing for effective coordination and for both Unions to be on the same page,” the unions explained.
“We express our deepest appreciation for your steadfast commitment to the leadership and we affirm our determination to persist in this struggle until ultimate victory is secured.”
The strike is set to impact administrative work in public universities, potentially disrupting academic schedules and services, as non-teaching staff press forward with their demands for unpaid wages.
