SSANU, NASU to suspend strike May 11

The Joint Action Committee of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) has signaled a potential end to the prolonged strike that has disrupted academic activities in public universities. This move, directing branches to begin the process of suspension effective May 11, 2026, offers a glimmer of hope for the resumption of normal academic calendars.

The unions' decision hinges on a firm commitment secured from the Federal Government's Expanded Renegotiation Committee, led by former Head of the Civil Service, Yayale Ahmed. The government has pledged to finalize all outstanding renegotiations, including a reviewed offer for the Consolidated Tertiary Institutions Salary Structure (CONTISS), within a fortnight of the strike's suspension. This assurance appears to have swayed the union leadership, who have urged their members to convene congresses for ratification.

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The leadership of JAC considered the passionate appeal for the suspension of the ongoing strike action and also extracted a commitment from the FGN Expanded Renegotiation Committee that all renegotiations, including a reviewed offer of the Consolidated Tertiary Institutions Salary Structure (CONTISS), shall be concluded in two weeks from the date of the suspension of the strike.

From the perspective of Nigerian university staff, this development is crucial. The strike, which began on May 1, 2026, was a response to the government's protracted delay in concluding the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement, which governs salaries, allowances, and overall working conditions. The non-academic staff have endured significant hardship and uncertainty during this period, and the prospect of a resolution, however tentative, is a welcome one.

While the government's commitment to conclude negotiations within two weeks is a positive step, the history of such agreements in Nigeria suggests a need for cautious optimism. The unions' directive to their branches to ratify the suspension indicates that the final decision rests with the rank-and-file members. The success of this resolution will ultimately depend on the government's adherence to its promises and the swift conclusion of the renegotiations, ensuring that the welfare and working conditions of these essential university personnel are adequately addressed.

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Branch leaders are hereby urged to note this appeal and convene congresses to report the above, for a suspension of the strike effective from Monday, 11th May, 2026, while other engagements with relevant stakeholders continue.