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  • CONUA, SSANU, NASU to Fed Govt: give us our own deal

    CONUA, SSANU, NASU to Fed Govt: give us our own deal

    The Congress of University Academics (CONUA), Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) have urged the Federal Government to urgently conclude renegotiations with them. According to them, the Federal Government and Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) agreement is a welcome development, but it does not automatically translate to total industrial peace in the university system. Stakeholders have joined SSANU, NASU and NAAT in asserting that the government must urgently conclude renegotiations to avoid fresh unrest and sustain the current stability on campuses, Assistant Editor Bola Olajuwon writes

    Last week, the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) signed and unveiled a landmark renegotiated agreement. Parents, students and other education stakeholders expressed a sigh of relief since the new deal replaced the controversial 2009 pact. It was aimed at ending nearly two decades of industrial friction in the university system.

    The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, described the agreement as a “decisive turning point” for Nigerian education. To ASUU President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, the union remains cautious regarding the “totality” of the government’s implementation based on past experiences.

    President, National Parent Teacher Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN), Alhaji Haruna Danjuma and Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Adeyemi Samson Ajasa, among others, hailed the signing of the agreement.

    Danjuma, in a chat with The Nation, said: “It’s a great turning point in restoring stability, trust and quality in Nigerian tertiary education systems if Federal Government stands by the agreement, and on the other side I urge ASUU to accept the agreement now that the government has unveiled the renegotiation agreement as part of their own contributions, we therefore commend the efforts of the Minister of Education for facilitating this agreement, and we hope he will ensure total execution of the agreement.”

    Ajasa said: “I believe this new agreement will build a new stability and ensure proper funding of education, with all these previous agitations resolved. I believe it will take proper and immediate effect, whereby all parties will be satisfied.

    “This should also motivate the lecturers and staff to do their best and deliver proper education and teaching and learning to students, including proper research works.”

    SSANU, NASU announce indefinite strike’s threats

    But not surprising though, other university unions, such as Congress of University Academics (CONUA), Joint Action Committee (JAC) of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) have threatened indefinite strikes over alleged non-completion of pending agreements with them. The other university union is the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT).

    SSANU and NASU have demanded that the government meet its obligations, concerning the payment of withheld four months’ salaries from 2022 and implementing agreements like the 2009 renegotiation and the N35,000 wage award.

    A statement signed by Prince Peters Adeyemi, General Secretary, NASU and Mohammed Ibrahim, President, SSANU and Chairman of JAC, said: “JAC of NASU and SSANU remains committed to the entrenchment of industrial harmony and sustainable communities in our universities, and calls on the Federal Government to ensure expedited action in the ongoing renegotiation with NASU and SSANU, as any further delay after the signing of today’s agreement with our sister union would be tantamount to a clear invitation to chaos, and the distortion of industrial peace which we have continued to maintain despite government’s continued insensitivity to the university system and the gruesome conditions under which our members are made to work.

    “JAC notes that timely conclusion of the ongoing renegotiation with NASU and SSANU would avert the breakdown of industrial peace and harmony in the system, and hereby advises the Federal Government not to stir the hornet’s nest through any form of delay tactics.”

    The SSANU and JAC Chairman, in an interview, warned that the relief expressed by stakeholders might be short-lived unless the government urgently concluded negotiations with other university-based unions.

    According to him, the “solution to this is simple: the government must deploy all necessary resources, strategies, and political will through the existing renegotiation committee to conclude discussions with the remaining three non-teaching staff unions with the speed of light.”

    In that regard, the most brilliant move this present government can make at this moment regarding industrial peace and harmony, and smooth operation of tertiary education in the country is to build on the quantum leap it has taken by finally addressing the lingering issue of the 2009 agreement renegotiation with ASUU, an issue that dragged on for 16 years.

    “Having taken this wise decision to this problem in the bud, it is only logical and strategic that the process should now flow naturally to the other university-based unions. These unions also have outstanding 2009 agreements awaiting renegotiation, and the government has already commenced discussions with them. It is, therefore, paramount, timely, and strategic that the government concludes all outstanding renegotiations, ideally within the shortest possible time, even within the next one month.

    “Doing so will send a powerful signal to workers across the university system that this is a responsive government; one that genuinely has the interest of workers and its citizens at heart. So now that that of ASUU is concluded, all eyes are focused on what the government will do concerning the conclusion of negotiation of the same 1999 agreement with NASU, SSANU and NAAT.”

    He argued that since all tertiary education–based unions have anchored their demands on the same 1999 agreement framework, stressing that the Federal Government should shun staggered or selective conclusion of negotiations with separate unions

    Ibrahim strongly advised the Federal Government to urgently conclude renegotiations with the remaining three university-based unions.

    Also, the CONUA National President, ‘Niyi Sunmonu, PhD, said his association recognised that issues arising from the 2009 agreements extend beyond a single union and affect the wider university system. The conclusion of the renegotiation between the Federal Government and ASUU, he said, in 2025 represents progress, particularly given how long those matters remained unresolved.

    “More importantly, negotiations in the university sector are ongoing and not limited to one union. Other university-based unions, including CONUA, NASU and SSANU, have outstanding issues that require timely and good-faith engagement. For reforms to be comprehensive and for industrial peace to be durable, it is essential that the Federal Government expedites negotiations with all recognised and registered unions,” Sunmonu said.

    Primary points of contention

    As of this month, the funding and labour disagreements between NASU, SSANU, and the Federal Government centre on perceived marginalisation compared to academic staff and unfulfilled financial commitments.

    The contentions include:

    The “Sharing Formula” Dispute: A major grievance involves the distribution of the N50 billion intervention fund. The unions reject the government’s formula, which they claim allocates roughly 70–80% of the funds to ASUU, leaving only 20–30% to be shared among all non-teaching unions.

    Inclusion of Specific Centres: SSANU has demanded that Inter-University Centres and research institutes, which they claim were “wrongly excluded” from previous payments, be fully included in future disbursements.

    “No Work, No Pay” Backlog: The unions are demanding the payment of salaries withheld during past industrial actions, specifically for several months in 2022.

    Salary Increment Arrears: There is a persistent demand for the payment of arrears from the 25% and 35% salary increments previously promised to university staff.

    Renegotiation of the 2009 Agreement: Following a milestone agreement signed between the Federal Government and ASUU on January 14, 2026, NASU and SSANU have warned of “chaos” and potential strike action if their own renegotiations are not fast-tracked.

    Demand for a Living Wage: The unions are seeking a comprehensive review of conditions of service and a wage increase that reflects current economic realities.

    Ministry’s position

    Following the Federal Government’s agreement with ASUU, the Federal Ministry Education is under pressure to conclude similar negotiations with the non-teaching staff to avoid disrupting industrial harmony in universities.

    Alausa has acknowledged the ongoing negotiations and indicated that the government is working to address the welfare of both academic and non-academic staff.

    The ministry has previously stated it is engaging with the unions to address grievances and has urged restraint regarding threats of strike action, asserting that the government is working in phases to meet demands.

    While the minister has expressed optimism about the ongoing process, the unions have stated that “something substantial has not yet happened,” warning that the lack of concrete, finalised offers could lead to a breakdown in peace.

    The ministry has, however, streamlined the negotiation process, moving from multiple committees to a single committee led by Yahaya Ahmed to handle negotiations with all tertiary institution unions, including NASU and SSANU.

    Stakeholders: why govt must conclude deal with SSANU, NASU

    The Chairman of Board of Trustees, National Parents Teachers Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN), Chief Adeolu Ogunbanjo, while reacting over the issue, urged the Federal Government to try and engage and negotiate with the non-academic unions.

    “But usual trouble is they also want the same thing as academic staff. And that has not been tied in with the government.

    “But if they have been doing the same thing for them, both SSANU and NASU, they should work out a commensurate service policy to also satisfy them. Definitely, I’m in total support of negotiating with them to ensure that they also treat them fairly. A situation where they won’t touch the 2009 agreement at all may be counter-productive in the university because they will now start their issues again.

    “But they should try and be reasonable when they’re on the negotiating table with the Federal Government. There’s no way that the Federal Government can treat ASUU, SSANU and NASU the same way.

    “If they have been on the same negotiating standpoint – the 2009 agreement with the ASUU, the 2009 agreement with SANU and the other bodies – it is the same thing. I think it’s only fair the government concludes the agreement with them for peace and harmony on our campuses.”

    However, Sunmonu called for inclusive, sector-wide engagement that promotes equity, transparency, and stability across the university system.

    He said: “Our position is grounded in law and international labour standards. Nigeria is a signatory to ILO Conventions 87 and 98, which guarantee freedom of association, protect collective bargaining rights, and recognise union pluralism as a legitimate feature of modern labour relations. These conventions do not establish a monopoly for any union; rather, they require good-faith bargaining and respect for lawful representation.

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    “CONUA remains committed to constructive dialogue, responsible unionism, and policies that strengthen Nigeria’s tertiary education system for the benefit of staff, students.

    The National Coordinator, Education Rights Campaign (ERC), Hassan Taiwo Soweto, in his contribution, asserted that the demands of the unions have always been rational and legitimate.

    “Also, these demands have always been in the interest of public education. Without the resolute struggle of ASUU, SSANU, NASU and other unions in the education sector, the reality would have been gorier than what is presently obtainable.

    “However, the newly signed agreement is like a drop of water into an ocean. The 40% increment in the monthly earning through additional allowance is not in conformity with the rate of inflation, which has eroded such increase in wage.

    “We strongly believe that ASUU can fight more; in fact, this agreement is a product of the relentless struggle of ASUU over the years. Left to the government, it would have watched the complete collapse of public education.

    “Importantly, we believe that the demands of SSANU and NASU must equally be met in full. However, we urge that unions in the education sector, including student unions, wage a united and resolute struggle to force government to begin the process of uplifting the education sector from its present ruin. This can only be done by properly funding the education sector and democratising the decision-making process of institutions to include the active participation of students and staff members through their independent unions.”

    National President of Association for Formidable Educational Development Orji Kanu Emmanuel told The Nation that he was concerned about the systemic challenges the government is allowing to fester.

    According to him, successive administrations’ neglect had significantly hindered progress, adding that it’s disheartening to see crucial issues linger unresolved.

    Emmanuel asserted that the unfulfilled agreements between the Federal Government and university workers since 2009 are a stark example of this trend.

    “Over 15 years of waiting for salary increments, earned allowances, and other entitlements is not just unacceptable – it’s detrimental to the very fabric of our education system.

    “As AFED’s leader, I align with NASU and SSANU’s request for the Federal Government to conclude the pending agreements. Quality education is key to Nigeria’s future, and resolving these issues is crucial to unlocking the potential of our institutions and, by extension, our nation. I appeal to the government to address NASU and SSANU’s concerns with the same urgency they’ve approached ASUU’s negotiations. This would avert pending strike actions, demonstrate commitment to education, and show that the government values the welfare of all education stakeholders.

    “I commend the current administration’s efforts to reform and prioritise education, but let’s be honest – the inherited challenges are substantial. With the strong will demonstrated by the team of ministers in charge of education, I remain hopeful that we’ll see tangible progress. Our education system deserves better, and our future depends on it,” he said.

  • JAC of SSANU, NASU lauds ASUU on signed agreement with FG

    JAC of SSANU, NASU lauds ASUU on signed agreement with FG

    • …urge FG to expedite action on pending renegotiation with NASU, SSANU 

    The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has commended the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) for signing the 2009 FGN-ASUU renegotiation agreement with the Federal Government. 

    The agreement was presented to the public on Wednesday by Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa at an event attended by former ASUU presidents, ministers, academics, senators, Rep members among others. 

    The committee urged the government to expedite action on the pending renegotiation with NASU, SSANU.

    A statement signed by Prince Peters Adeyemi, General Secretary, NASU and Mohammed Ibrahim, President, SSANU and Chairman of JAC, said, “JAC of NASU and SSANU remains committed to the entrenchment of industrial harmony and sustainable communities in our Universities, and calls on the Federal Government to ensure expedited action in the ongoing renegotiation with NASU and SSANU, as any further delay after the signing of today’s agreement with our sister Union would be tantamount to a clear invitation to chaos, and the distortion of industrial peace which we have continued to maintain despite Government’s continued insensitivity to the University system and the gruesome conditions under which our members are made to work.

    “JAC notes that timely conclusion of the ongoing renegotiation with NASU and SSANU would avert the breakdown of industrial peace and harmony in the system, and hereby advises the Federal Government not to stir the hornet’s nest through any form of delay tactics.”

  • Insecurity: SSANU urges govt to deploy surveillance technology in schools

    Insecurity: SSANU urges govt to deploy surveillance technology in schools

    The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has expressed concern over the security challenges confronting the nation.

    The union said the recent abduction of students and teachers in Niger and Kebbi States highlighted a dangerous trend that threatens education at all levels.

    SSANU therefore urged the federal and state governments to prioritise security in all educational institutions by deploying modern surveillance technology in schools.

    The union said this during its 53rd National Executive Council (NEC) at the University of Jos, Plateau State, where it reviewed the state of the nation, assessed developments in the Nigerian university system, and deliberated on issues affecting the welfare of its members.

    The union stated in a communique signed by its National President, Comrade Mohammed Ibrahim, “NEC expressed deep concern over the worsening insecurity across the country, especially the spike in kidnappings targeting schools and university environments. The recent abduction of students and teachers in Niger and Kebbi States highlights a dangerous trend that threatens education at all levels.

    “The Council calls on the Federal and State Governments to prioritize security in all educational institutions by deploying modern surveillance technology, strengthening perimeter protection, and improving intelligence and community-based security systems. University security architecture must be upgraded, and staff must be covered by comprehensive health and life insurance.”

    The NEC also expressed dissatisfaction with the longstanding marginalisation of non-teaching staff in both the payment of Earned Allowances and the government’s renegotiation engagements.

    It insisted that the ₦50 billion agreed upon in the 2022 MoU/MoA must be released without further delay and that Inter-University Centres and research institutes, wrongly excluded in previous disbursements, must be fully included in the next payment.

    According to the union, the continued denial of financial entitlements to its members was unacceptable and would attract firm, coordinated action.

    “NEC further reviewed the activities of the expanded renegotiation committee and noted that the government has failed to make a substantial commitment to SSANU, even while giving preferential treatment to others.

    “This pattern reflects a deliberate and persistent exclusion of non-teaching staff. The Council resolved that if the government fails to conclude credible renegotiations and present a realistic offer by December 31st, 2025, SSANU will be compelled to initiate total, comprehensive, and system-wide industrial action in 2026 to defend the rights and dignity of its members,” the communique said.

    It added, “The 53rd NEC Meeting reaffirmed the commitment of SSANU to defend the welfare, rights, and dignity of its members. The Council calls on government at all levels to take urgent steps to address the issues raised and engage constructively with non-teaching staff who form the backbone of Nigeria’s universities.

    “SSANU will continue to pursue dialogue, but it will not hesitate to take lawful action where necessary to protect its members and secure the future of the Nigerian university system.”

  • SSANU threatens strike at AAUA over unpaid salaries, arrears

    SSANU threatens strike at AAUA over unpaid salaries, arrears

    • …accuses Aiyedatiwa of reneging on promises

    Members of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) at the state-owned Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), have threatened to embark on an indefinite strike over alleged unpaid salaries, arrears, and other unmet demands.

    The association vowed to join their counterpart, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), which has already withdrawn services since August over similar grievances.

    ASUU had earlier warned that the planned resumption of students and the forthcoming convocation ceremony could be disrupted if outstanding payments were not made.

    Speaking on Thursday, Chairman of the Joint Action Committee (JAC) in AAUA, Comrade Olutayo Ogungbeni, accused the Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa-led administration of reneging on promises made in June 2025 to settle arrears and increase subventions to tertiary institutions.

    According to him, SSANU members are owed more than two months’ salaries, with the last payment received in July.

    He explained that the current subvention accruable to the institution is insufficient, making it difficult to implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage for university workers.

    Read Also: SSANU plans strike over withheld salaries, others

    “The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), AAUA, may commence industrial action if all outstanding salaries are not paid. The last salary collected was in July, and now we are in October,” Ogungbeni said.

    He lamented that staff had exercised patience for too long, stressing that they are now poised for a showdown.

    Ogungbeni further accused the state government of neglecting the university by failing to provide adequate funding over the years.

    While noting that the ASUU strike has already halted academic activities, Ogungbeni warned that the looming SSANU strike would paralyze all administrative and support services at the institution if the government fails to intervene.

    He listed some of SSANU’s demands to include, “Payment of 54 months’ arrears of 2019, payment of 18 months’ arrears of the 25%/35% salary increment, payment of two months’ arrears of the 2024 minimum wage, payment of promotion arrears for 2022, 2023, and 2024, and immediate payment of August and September 2025 salaries.

    The Commissioner for Education in the state, Prof Igbekele Ajibefun, was not available for comments when contacted on Thursday by our reporter.

    Prof. Ajibefun neither picked up calls nor replied to his messages as of the time of publishing this report.

    Recall that the state government had said it was making frantic efforts at forestalling an industrial action in the state-owned institution as the organised unions threatened to disrupt the resumption and planned convocation ceremony.

  • SSANU plans strike over withheld salaries, others

    SSANU plans strike over withheld salaries, others

    Members of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) have threatened to withdraw their services if the federal government failed to meet their demands.

    The union has extended its ultimatum by seven days to “allow the government room to respond.”

    The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of SSANU and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) had issued a seven day ultimatum beginning from 15th September 2025, to the federal government to meet its outstanding demands.

    The demands include: renegotiation of the 2009 FG/SSANU agreement, non-payment of withheld salaries and unjust disbursement of warned allowances.

    In a communique signed by its National President, Comrade Mohammed Ibrahim at the end of its 52nd National Executive (NEC) meeting at Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri Imo state, the university workers expressed displeasure over government’s continued silence, as the ultimatum draws closer.

    The communique reads, “NEC expresses deep disappointment over the continued silence and inaction of the Federal Government’s Renegotiation Committee regarding the 2009 FG/SSANU Agreement. NEC strongly calls on the government to honour the two weeks extension given by JAC of SSANU/NASU in order to avert the impending industrial crisis in the university system.

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    “NEC strongly condemns the continued withholding of salaries of SSANU members who participated in the 2022 industrial action.

    “NEC therefore, urges the Federal Government to immediately release the outstanding two (2) months withheld salaries as a demonstration of good faith and commitment to restoring industrial harmony within the University system.

    “NEC also notes that third-party deductions from the already paid two months of withheld salaries have yet to be remitted and therefore calls for the immediate release of these funds.

    “NEC expresses deep concern over the Federal Government’s persistent disregard for Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), Memoranda of Action (MoAs), and other duly negotiated collective bargaining agreements entered into with SSANU.”

    The union reiterated that such agreements, reached through structured dialogue and mutual consent, are binding and must be honoured in full.

    The SSANU warned that if this pattern of neglect continued, it will have no choice but to “explore all lawful and appropriate avenues to compel compliance.”

    The union also condemned the formula adopted for the disbursements of earned allowances (EA) that was released by the government.

    It alleged that the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) had a larger share of the released EA.

    The union further said, “SSANU frowns at the inequitable and negligible allocation of the N50 billion Earned Allowance, wherein only 20% which amounts to N10 billion was allotted to the three (3) non-teaching unions (SSANU, NASU & NAAT) as against the N50 billion agreed in the signed MoU/MoA before the suspension of the 2022 industrial action.

    “This allocation is unjust, discriminatory, and fails to acknowledge the indispensable role SSANU members play in the effective functioning of Nigerian Universities.

    “It is also in breach of the MoU/MoA signed with the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of NASU and SSANU in August 2022. NEC calls for an immediate release of the balance of ₦40 billion Earned Allowance to reflect principles of fairness, equity, and inclusiveness across all non-teaching staff unions of universities and Inter-University Centres in line with the Memorandum of Understanding and Memorandum of Action signed with the unions.”

    The union also deliberated on the state of the health sector and other sectors in the country.

    It expressed deep concerns over the poor funding of the sector and deteriorating condition of critical sectors, the rising spate of insecurity including kidnappings, banditry, and communal clashes which have continued to disrupt daily life, displace families, and cripple economic activity.

    SSANU also expressed concerns that, “Agriculture and food security are under severe threat, with an estimated 33.1 million Nigerians facing acute food shortages due to conflict, climate shocks, and economic instability.

    Key recommendations made to federal and state governments include: granting full autonomy to university governing councils to reduce political interference and enable decisions that best serve the staff and students of the universities; strengthen existing research and innovation funds and make them accessible to all disciplines to ensure consistent support for groundbreaking studies and technological development; and provide a living wage with guaranteed, timely salary payments to attract, motivate, and retain top talents among both teaching and non-teaching staff.

    Others are: increase budgetary allocations to health and education, and to ensure that all funds are fully and transparently disbursed; strengthen primary healthcare systems while improving working conditions to curb the brain drain of professionals; declare targeted security emergencies in high-risk states with the deployment of modern technology, intelligence gathering, and community policing, while addressing root causes such as poverty, youth unemployment, and land-use conflicts.

    It also recommended support for farmers through provision of inputs, access to credits, storage facilities, and irrigation systems to safeguard food security and stabilise prices; prioritise infrastructure development by maintaining roads, ensuring reliable electricity, providing safe water, and implementing effective flood-control measures.

    The union’s NEC called on all tiers of government to act with urgency and sincerity, noting that Nigerians deserved concrete action, not promises.

  • SSANU, NASU issue strike notice over unmet demands

    SSANU, NASU issue strike notice over unmet demands

    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 issued a seven-day strike notice to the Federal Government over outstanding demands.

    The unions threatened to go on strike at the end of the ultimatum, which started on September 15.

    The JAC gave the notice in a joint statement by its Chairman, Mohammed Ibrahim, who doubles as SSANU President, and the union’s General Secretary, Prince Peters Adeyemi, in Abuja.

    The unions alleged that efforts to address the outstanding demands with the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, have not yielded any positive results.

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    The unions listed some of the issues as “unjust” disbursement of N50 billion earned allowances; non-payment of outstanding withheld salaries and 25/35 per cent salary increments; and renegotiation of 2009 FGN and NASU/SSANU agreements.

    The statement said: “The minister would recall that at the July 4, 2025 meeting to address the afore-stated issues, there was a resolution to the effect that a Tripartite Committee comprising representatives from the Federal Ministry of Education, National Universities Commission (NUC) and JAC of NASU and SSANU would be constituted to resolve the impasse which had arisen due to the skewed distribution of the N50 billion Earned Allowances in which our members in the universities were shortchanged, while those in the Inter-University Centres were completely shut out of the distribution.

  • SSANU, NASU issue 7-day strike notice to FG over outstanding demands 

    SSANU, NASU issue 7-day strike notice to FG over outstanding demands 

    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 issued a seven day strike notice to the Federal Government to attend to its outstanding demands. 

    The union bodies threatened strike at the end of the ultimatum which commenced on Monday (Sept 15). 

    The JAC gave the notice in a joint statement signed by its Chairman, Mohammed Ibrahim who doubles as President of SSANU and General Secretary of NASU, Prince Peters Adeyemi on Monday in Abuja. 

    The unions alleged that efforts to address the outstanding demands with the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa have not yielded any positive result. 

    Some of the issues include: unjust disbursement of N50b earned allowances; non-payment of outstanding withheld salaries and 25/35% salary increments; and renegotiation of 2009 FGN and NASU/SSANU agreements.

    The statement said, “The Minister would recall that at the 4th July, 2025 meeting to address the aforestated issues, there was a resolution to the effect that a Tripartite Committee comprising representatives from the Federal Ministry of Education, National Universities Commission and JAC of NASU and SSANU would be constituted to resolve the impasse which had arisen due to the skewed distribution of the N50Billion Earned Allowances in which our members in the Universities were shortchanged, while those in the Inter-University Centres were completely shut out of the distribution. 

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    “While there was no conclusion at the 4th July, 2025 meeting on the issue of payment of two months’ outstanding withheld salaries owed our members, you pledged to set machinery in motion to expedite action on the issue of payment of arrears of 25/35% salary increments owed our members.

    “Sequel to the 4th July, 2025 meeting, there was a reminder letter dated 18th August, 2025, owing to the silence or deliberate decision by your office not to address issues affecting Non-Teaching staff in our Universities and Inter-University Centres.

    “It is equally important to note that the renegotiation of Year 2009 FGN and NASU/SSANU Agreements is being delayed. It is on record that Alhaji Yayale Ahmed led Renegotiation Committee inaugurated on 15th October, 2024 to review the 2009 Agreements with the University Based Unions only had inaugural meeting with JAC of NASU and SSANU on 10th December, 2024 and since then the Federal Government Team has gone into limbo with the Non-Teaching Staff Unions, whereas information at our disposal confirmed that the same Federal Government Team has already concluded renegotiation with our counterpart, the Academic Staff Union in the sector and at the verge of signing an agreement while the Federal Government Team has refused to engage the Non-Teaching Staff Unions and even sidelined us despite fulfilling all justifications including re- submission of our Memoranda of Demands.

    “We brought this to your attention during our 4th July, 2025 meeting and you promised to intervene for the Committee to expedite action. Regrettably, we are yet to see progress.

    “Despite our repeated efforts to draw your attention to address concerns affecting our members in the Universities and Inter- University Centres, there appears to be nothing positive forthcoming from your office.

    “In light of the persistent unresolved issues, and the apparent lack of responsiveness from the Government to our legitimate concerns, we are compelled to serve a formal notice of seven (7) days effective from Monday, 15th September, 2025 to address our agitations, failing which members of NASU and SSANU would embark on a series of legitimate industrial actions including strikes to press home our demands.”

  • SSANU to FG: release two-month withheld salaries of our members

    SSANU to FG: release two-month withheld salaries of our members

    …demands implementation of targeted social protection measures

    The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has asked the federal government to release the remaining two months’ withheld salaries of their members who participated in the 2022 strike.

    The union also decried the persistent delay in salary payments to federal universities, often weeks after other federal workers have been paid.

    These were some of the issues discussed at the 51st National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of SSANU held at Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil, Kano State.

    In a communique issued at the end of the NEC meeting and signed by the National President of SSANU, Comrade Mohammed Ibrahim, the union demanded the immediate harmonisation of salary disbursements across all federal and state institutions to ensure fairness and equity.

    SSANU also expressed disappointment over the continued silence and inaction of the federal government’s Renegotiation Committee regarding the 2009 FG/SSANU Agreement.

    It said that the prolonged delay in commencing substantive discussions was unacceptable, demanding the immediate resumption and timely conclusion of the renegotiation process to address the long-standing concerns of its members to avert an industrial crisis in the university system.

    The union decried the inequitable and negligible allocation of the ₦50 billion Earned Allowance, where only 20 per cent which amounted to ₦10 billion was allocated to the members of the three non-teaching unions comprising SSANU; Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT).

    “This allocation is unjust, discriminatory, and fails to acknowledge the indispensable role SSANU members play in the effective functioning of Nigerian Universities. It is also in breach of the MoU signed with the joint action committee (JAC) of NASU and SSANU in August 2022. NEC calls for a redress of this injustice meted out to our members in the Universities and inter-university centres,” the communique read.

    The union also decried the persistent disregard for Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), Memoranda of Action (MoAs), and other duly negotiated, collectively bargained agreements entered into with the government.

    SSANU reminded the federal government that such agreements, having been reached through structured dialogue and mutual consent, are binding and must be honoured in full.

    Read Also: SSANU, NASU protest unjust distribution of N50bn earned allowances

    “NEC warns that if this pattern of neglect continues, the Union will be left with no choice but to explore all lawful and appropriate avenues to compel compliance,” the union said.

    SSANU also decried the worsening state of insecurity across the country, particularly the recent mass killings in Benue, Plateau, and other States.

    It called on the federal government to declare a national emergency on security, including investing in modern security infrastructure and rejigging the security architecture through intelligence gathering and professionalisation of security agencies.

    The union also urged the government to address the root causes of violence, particularly poverty, youth unemployment, and social injustice, through targeted development and empowerment initiatives.

    On the state of the economy, SSANU, the recent economic reforms, including fuel subsidy removal and currency unification introduced by the federal government, though intended to stabilise the economy, have significantly worsened the cost of living for Nigerians.

    It also observed that inflation, rising food prices and declining purchasing power have placed unbearable pressure on workers and the vulnerable.

    The union, therefore, called on the federal government to urgently implement targeted social protection measures, including food subsidies, fuel vouchers, and conditional cash transfers, to cushion the impact on citizens, particularly low-income earners.

    “NEC calls on the Federal Government to demonstrate sincerity, commitment, and responsiveness in addressing our demands as SSANU reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the promotion of equity, professionalism, and good governance within the Nigerian university system and the broader national landscape.

    “The union remains resolute in its duty to protect the welfare, rights, and dignity of its members across the country,” the communique added.

  • SSANU, NASU protest unjust distribution of N50bn earned allowances

    SSANU, NASU protest unjust distribution of N50bn earned allowances

    The Joint Action Committee of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) on Sunday condemned the recent distribution formula for the N50 billion earned allowance approved by the federal government for university-based unions.

    The unions expressed their displeasure in the sharing formula in a jointly signed statement by the President of SSANU, Mohammed Ibrahim, and the General Secretary of NASU, Peters Adeyemi on Sunday in Abuja.

    The federal government last month approved the release of N50bn to universities as earned allowances.

    The N50bn is to be shared between the Academic Staff Union of Universities; NASU, SSANU and National Association of Academic Technologists.

    The statement said, “We wish to make it clear that this is not a contest of supremacy among unions. Rather, it is about fairness, recognition, and the equitable treatment of all workers who form the backbone of the Nigerian University system.”

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    The unions further demanded a review and reversal of the allocation formula, which they describe as “grossly unfair” and “totally unacceptable.”

    The unions argued that the distribution was capable of creating industrial disharmony and accentuating the teaching/non-teaching dichotomy in Nigerian universities.

    The unions vowed to stand united in demanding justice, fairness, and recognition of their rightful place in the university community.

    They warned that going ahead with the unfair distribution will breed resentment and trigger widespread industrial disharmony.

    “Non-Teaching staff of Nigerian Universities are not second-class citizens but are critical stakeholders who contribute immensely to the day-to-day functionality, administrative efficiency, research excellence, technical operations, and overall development of the Nigerian Universities system.

    “A harmonious and productive academic environment can only be achieved when all stakeholders are treated with respect, dignity, equity, and fairness,” the statement added.

  • SSANU threatens industrial action over delayed payment of salaries

    SSANU threatens industrial action over delayed payment of salaries

    The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has expressed dismay over delay in the payment of salaries of its members.

    The union, in a letter to the attributed the delay to the migration to the Government Integrated Financial and Management Information System (GIFMIS) platform.

    In a letter addressed to the Accountant General of the Federation, SSANU called for a swift intervention to prevent a breakdown of industrial harmony in tertiary institutions.

    President of SSANU, Comrade Mohammed Ibrahim in a letter to the Accountant General dated, May 7, 2025, with the title: “Concern over the consistent delay in the payment of monthly salaries of University workers,” expressed dismay over the persistent delay since the university based unions exited from the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS) payment platform.

    He said that the continuous delay in salary payment to SSANU members was in breach of the 2022 agreement reached between the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of SSANU/NASU and the Federal Government, which led to the suspension of the prolonged strike action.

    In the letter which was copied to the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Mohammed Dingyadi and the Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission (NUC), the SSANU president stated that part of the 2022 agreement that led to the suspension of the strike was the assurance that no member of the unions that took part in the strike would be victimised in any form.

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    The letter read, “The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) writes to express our deep concern over the consistent delay in the payment of monthly salaries of university workers, particularly since our exit from the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS).

    “It is regrettable that, since our exit from IPPIS, the salaries of our members are often paid two weeks after salaries have been disbursed to other federal workers.

    “This pattern has continued unabated and has become a source of anxiety and resentment among our members. We view this delay not only as an administrative lapse but as a clear act of discrimination against our members.

    “We wish to remind your esteemed office that a key component of the agreement reached between the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of SSANU/NASU and the Federal Government in 2022—which led to the suspension of our last industrial action—was the assurance that no member of the unions that took part in the strike would be victimised in any form.

    “The continuous delay in salary payment to our members is in breach of this agreement and suggests a punitive response to our union’s lawful decisions and actions.

    “This situation is not only unacceptable but also threatens the fragile industrial peace currently being enjoyed in our nation’s university system. SSANU cannot stand by while our members are subjected to such treatment, which undermines their morale and welfare.

    “We therefore call on your office to urgently investigate and address this issue by ensuring that university workers receive their salaries in line with the general federal payment schedule. Any further delay will be interpreted as deliberate and may compel the union to take necessary steps to protect the rights and dignity of its members.

    “We trust in your swift and fair intervention in this matter to prevent a breakdown of industrial harmony within our tertiary institutions.”