Withheld Salaries: NASU, SSANU Begin Indefinite Strike On Monday

The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of non-teaching staff unions in Nigerian universities, comprising the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), has declared an indefinite nationwide strike beginning Sunday night, October 27, 2024.

The strike is in response to the non-payment of four months’ withheld salaries, despite earlier resolutions.

The circular sent to all branch chairmen of NASU and SSANU in universities and inter-university centres detailed the decision.

Titled “Latest development in respect of the withheld four (4) months salaries,” it indicates a shift from the initially planned strike date of October 23, due to the Trade Group Council meeting of NASU branches.

Signed by Prince Peters Adeyemi, General Secretary of NASU, and Comrade Mohammed Ibrahim, President of SSANU, the notice explained that the rescheduling was necessary for better coordination and to ensure both unions acted in unison.

The move follows what the unions describe as the government’s lack of commitment to resolving their grievances, highlighted by the Minister of Finance’s alleged failure to act on President Bola Tinubu’s authorization to pay 50 percent of the owed salaries.

According to the circular, “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 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.

“We express our deepest appreciation for your steadfast commitment to the leadership and we affirm our determination to persist in this struggle until ultimate victory is secured.”