The Federal Government has released funds to settle salary arrears for NASU members and benefits for retirees. The Accountant-General’s Office confirmed the disbursement on Saturday, addressing long-standing payments. This action follows prolonged strikes that have disrupted Nigeria’s federal universities. These funds aim to restore stability in university operations across the nation.
Government Action to Settle Salary Arrears
A statement issued by Bawa Mokwa, Director of Press and Public Relations for the Accountant-General’s Office, confirmed the disbursement of funds for NASU salaries. According to Mokwa, payments have already commenced, with some NASU members confirming receipt. The funds aim to cover withheld salaries of university staff, a key factor behind recent industrial action.
Support for Retirees and Pensioners
The Federal Government has disbursed funds to cover benefits owed to retirees under the Nigerian Union of Pensioners scheme. This allocation addresses overdue pension payments affecting former federal university employees. Many retirees rely on these funds for essential living expenses. The government aims to resolve pension delays with this critical disbursement.
Welfare Commitment to University Staff
The Office of the Accountant-General reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting Nigerian workers and retirees. Officials emphasised ongoing efforts to address non-academic staff grievances. “The Federal Government is dedicated to worker welfare,” the statement declared, underscoring the payment’s importance. This milestone highlights the government’s focus on staff and retiree support.
Ongoing Strike and University Closures
The announcement follows an indefinite strike initiated by SSANU and NASU’s Joint Action Committee over four months of withheld salaries. This strike has disrupted academic activities across federal universities. Staff members demand prompt salary payments to resume regular university operations. University management has been unable to operate effectively, with key officials, including vice-chancellors, bursars, and registrars, also experiencing salary delays.
SSANU’s Call for Action
The National President of SSANU, Mohammed Ibrahim, highlighted the critical nature of the situation during an earlier interview, explaining that operations would not resume until the payment issues were fully addressed. “Universities will remain closed until the funds are disbursed and salaries restored,” he stated.
Path to Resolution
With the funds now allocated and disbursement underway, the government’s action marks a step towards ending the prolonged strike and restoring stability within Nigeria’s university system. As payments continue, many await the full restoration of academic activities, bringing relief to students and staff alike.
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