SSANU, NASU reaffirm suspension of planned strike

Nigerian universities are breathing a temporary sigh of relief as the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) have confirmed the suspension of their planned nationwide strike. This decision, announced by SSANU President Mohammed Ibrahim, follows assurances from the Federal Government's Expanded Tertiary Institutions Renegotiation Committee.

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We are giving a two-week window to conclude the renegotiation exercise and sign agreements as promised.

The joint action committee of SSANU and NASU had initially directed members to commence an indefinite strike on May 11. However, following appeals and assurances from the government committee, the strike was suspended. The unions have now set a strict two-week window for the conclusion and signing of agreements, making it clear that this suspension is contingent upon the government's adherence to the promised timeline.

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We will closely monitor the negotiations within the two-week window.

This development highlights the ongoing tension between university staff unions and the government over the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement. Key demands include salary structure reviews, implementation of collective bargaining outcomes, improved welfare conditions, and the payment of outstanding allowances and arrears. The unions have also expressed strong opposition to unilateral salary offers, such as a reported 30 percent increase. SSANU and NASU are closely monitoring the negotiations and have warned that any failure to meet the agreed-upon deadline could trigger fresh industrial action, underscoring the precarious nature of the current industrial peace.

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All outstanding issues must be resolved without further delay.