The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) have commenced a nationwide strike today, citing alleged unfair treatment and salary discrepancies by the Federal Government.
Prior to the strike, the unions had issued a warning to close down university hostels and power supply if their demands were not met by today, March 18, 2024.
SSANU’s National President, Muhammed Ibrahim, expressed concerns that 2022 arrears have not been paid to members, including Vice Chancellors, registrars, and bursars. Ibrahim confirmed on Sunday that both unions were prepared for the nationwide strike.
Nigeria’s Minister for Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, claimed earlier that he was unaware of the planned strike by SSANU/NASU. However, Ibrahim, appearing on Channels Television’s Morning Show programme, confirmed that the strike had indeed commenced.
“All our workers in registry, bursary, works and maintenance, security, and students’ affairs have withdrawn their services and nothing moves within the administration of any public university in Nigeria,” Ibrahim stated, emphasizing that this will continue for the next seven days unless their demands are met.
He noted that despite issuing a seven-day notice last Monday, the Minister of Labour, Nkiruka Onyejeocha, has not reached out to the unions. Ibrahim expressed disappointment in the lack of responsiveness compared to the approach taken by the former Labour Minister, Chris Ngige.
If the government fails to address their demands after the seven-day warning strike, Ibrahim warned that the unions will resort to further action.