Nigerian University Unions Commence Nationwide Strike Over Salary Disparities
The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) have embarked on a nationwide strike, citing unfair treatment and disparities in salary payments by the Federal Government as the reason behind their actions.
SSANU President, Mohammed Ibrahim, confirmed the commencement of the strike during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief program on Monday.
He stated, “Definitely, it (the strike) has already started. As of today (Monday), all our workers in registry, bursary, works and maintenance, security, students’ affairs have withdrawn their services and nothing moves within the administration of any public university in Nigeria, and that will be the case for the next seven days until and unless the needful is done.”
Expressing disappointment over the lack of official communication from government representatives, Ibrahim noted that although some individuals have reached out unofficially, their assurances cannot be relied upon.
Ibrahim voiced concern about perceived sabotage within the government, questioning why President Bola Tinubu instructed the payment of 2022 arrears to members of varsity unions, yet some government officials have not fully complied.
He criticized Labour Minister Nkiruka Onyejeocha for not reaching out to the aggrieved unions despite being given a seven-day notice last Monday. This, according to Ibrahim, is in stark contrast to the responsiveness of former Labour Minister Chris Ngige.
Warning of further action if their demands are not met, Ibrahim stated that should the government fail to address their concerns after the seven-day warning strike, SSANU and NASU would regroup and determine their next course of action.
The strike action underscores the ongoing struggle of university staff for fair treatment and equitable compensation, highlighting the importance of addressing salary disparities within the Nigerian higher education system.
