SSANU, NASU to begin indefinite strike over withheld salaries on Monday

• The members of non-teaching unions of universities, SSANU and NASU, were directed to commence a nationwide indefinite strike on Monday, October 28 
• Their Joint Action Committee gave this directive to protest the non-payment of four months withheld salaries 
• JAC expressed their disappointment over the delayed payment despite President Tinubu’s approval

Members of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) have been directed to commence a nationwide indefinite strike on Monday, October 28, over four months’ withheld salaries. 

The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of non-teaching staff unions in Nigerian universities gave this directive in a circular to all branch chairmen of NASU and SSANU in universities and inter-university centres. 

The circular, signed by NASU General Secretary Prince Peters Adeyemi and SSANU President Comrade Mohammed Ibrahim, was titled “Latest Development in Respect of the Withheld Four (4) Months Salaries.”

JAC clarified that the strike, originally planned for October 23, was rescheduled due to the Trade Group meeting of NASU branches, which coincided with that day. The circular outlined the importance of the timing adjustment, aiming for improved coordination and alignment between the unions.

The committee voiced its frustration over the delay, despite President Bola Tinubu’s approval for 50 per cent payment of the withheld salaries, suggesting that the alleged inaction by the Minister of Finance raises concerns about the government’s commitment to resolving the issue.

According to Vanguard, the circular reads: “It is on record that JAC of NASU and SSANU has issued multiple notices to the government to redress this ugly situation. However, the sincerity of the government to our cause is in doubt.

“However, the Trade Group Council Meeting of NASU branches in the Universities and Inter-University Centres has been scheduled to hold on Wednesday 23rd and Thursday 24th October 2024 at Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, and the arrangements for the meeting already concluded.

“In view of this, the leadership of JAC has decided that the effective date for the strike be moved to mid-night of Sunday, 27th October 2024, to allow the Branch Officers of NASU to be on ground before commencing the strike.

“We have to do this strategic change in timing for effective co-ordination and for both Unions to be on same page.”

JAC expressed its appreciation to all members for their steadfast commitment to the leadership and affirmed their determination to persist in the struggle until ultimate victory was secured.

ASUU threatens indefinite strike, says FG failed to honour agreement

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) issued a warning of an impending indefinite strike due to the Federal Government's failure to honour a 2009 agreement. 

Prof. Timothy Namo, the Bauchi Zonal Coordinator of ASUU, made this announcement during a press conference held on Friday in Jos.