Members of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) have embarked on a nationwide strike beginning today (Monday).
The strike action is in protest against alleged unfair treatment and disparities in salary payments by the Federal Government.
National President of SSANU, Muhammed Ibrahim, stated the grievances of the unions, citing the non-payment of 2022 arrears to their members, including Vice Chancellors, registrars, and bursars. Despite issuing a warning last Monday, the government has failed to address these concerns, prompting the commencement of the strike.
However, Minister for Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, claimed he was not aware of SSANU/NASU’s planned action.
SSANU President, Muhammed Ibrahim, confirmed during an interview on Channels Television’s Morning Show programme that the strike had indeed begun.
Ibrahim stated the widespread impact of the strike, stating, “As of today (Monday), all our workers in registry, bursary, works and maintenance, security, and students’ affairs have withdrawn their services.” He reiterated that the strike will persist for the next seven days unless the government addresses their demands.
Ibrahim noted the failure of government representatives, including the Minister of Labour, Nkiruka Onyejeocha, to engage with the aggrieved unions. He stated that the unions would determine their next course of action should the government continue to disregard their demands after the seven-day warning strike
