The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities has threatened to take fresh action if the Federal Government fails to pay the remaining two months of withheld salaries owed to its members who joined the 2022 strike.
The union made this known in a communique released after its 51st National Executive Council meeting, which was held at Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil, Kano State. The document was signed by SSANU National President, Mohammed Ibrahim.
SSANU expressed anger over what it called unfair treatment, saying it is wrong for federal university workers to receive their salaries weeks after other government employees. The union demanded that salaries be paid at the same time across all institutions, both state and federal.
It also criticised the slow response of the government’s Renegotiation Committee concerning the 2009 agreement between the union and the Federal Government. SSANU asked for immediate resumption and conclusion of talks on the matter, warning that delay could lead to another crisis in universities.
The union raised concern over the sharing of the ₦50 billion earned allowances. According to the statement, only ₦10 billion was given to the three non-teaching unions, including SSANU, which it described as unfair and a clear breach of the August 2022 agreement.
SSANU also accused the Federal Government of ignoring signed agreements and memoranda reached with unions after proper dialogue. It said the government must respect these deals, or the union would be forced to take lawful steps to demand justice.
On insecurity, SSANU condemned the killings in Benue, Plateau, and other parts of the country. It asked the Federal Government to declare a national emergency on security, invest in modern equipment, and strengthen intelligence gathering.
The union also spoke about the tough economy, blaming fuel subsidy removal and currency changes for the rising cost of living. It said Nigerians, especially low-income earners, are struggling with food prices, inflation, and poor purchasing power.
To reduce the hardship, SSANU urged the government to provide food subsidies, fuel vouchers, and cash support to help the most affected people. The union said it remains committed to defending the welfare and rights of its members and pushing for fairness in the education system.