By Ologeh Joseph Chibu
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) is set to meet with the Federal Government today (Thursday) at 11 a.m. to address the ongoing strike.
SSANU Vice-President Abdussobur Salaam confirmed that the union received an official invitation from the Federal Government on Wednesday night.
He stated, “We received a formal invitation last night. The meeting is scheduled for 11 am today. It will be presided over by the Minister of State for Education and will be held in the Minister’s Conference Room.”
The indefinite strike, which commenced on Monday, was prompted by four months of unpaid salaries, resulting in the suspension of university activities nationwide.
SSANU National President Mohammed Ibrahim highlighted that many top university officials, including Vice-Chancellors, bursars, and registrars, have also not received their salaries, further hampering university operations.
Ibrahim remarked, “It is a long-term battle because this strike also involves Vice-Chancellors, bursars, registrars, and other senior administrators who were not paid. The impact is significant, and no one from the government has reached out to us. We have withdrawn our services, and our members are resolute they will not return to work until all salaries are paid.” He noted that compliance with the strike has been strong, with a reported adherence rate of 98%.
The unions are calling for the payment of the four months of withheld salaries, improved remuneration, earned allowances, and the implementation of the 2009 agreements with the government.
