University Workers Demand Immediate Payment

The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities (NASU) have issued a three-week ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding payment of their outstanding salaries. The unions have warned that failure to comply will result in an indefinite strike, potentially crippling universities across the country.

Previous Grace Period Ignored

In a joint statement released by SSANU President, Mohammed Ibrahim, and NASU General Secretary, Prince Peters Adeyemi, the unions revealed that they had previously granted the government a 10-day grace period, which expired on July 26, 2024. Despite this, the government failed to meet their demands, prompting the unions to give a final warning.

Potential Nationwide University Shutdown

The new ultimatum, starting from September 17, 2024, gives the Federal Government three weeks to act. Should there be no positive response, the unions warn that universities and inter-university centres will be shut down indefinitely. This move could disrupt the academic calendar and affect millions of students.

Unpaid Salaries and Earned Allowances

Among the key demands are the payment of four months’ withheld salaries, better wages, earned allowances, and the full implementation of a 2009 agreement. The unions have expressed frustration over the government’s negligence despite repeated ultimatums and dialogues aimed at resolving these long-standing issues.

‘No Work, No Pay’ Policy Sparks Discontent

The government’s previous enforcement of the “No Work, No Pay” policy following a prolonged strike by university-based unions in 2022 remains a point of contention. Although President Bola Tinubu, after discussions with labour leaders, approved the release of unpaid salaries in July 2024, the unions claim that no payments have been made, triggering their renewed strike threat.

Strike Could Deepen University Crisis

This latest development comes as a major test for the Nigerian government, which has faced multiple labour challenges in recent years. A failure to meet the unions’ demands could result in further disruptions within the nation’s already troubled education sector.

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