Kehinde Fajobi
The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of university non-teaching staff unions, including the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), has announced a nationwide, indefinite strike beginning at midnight on Sunday, October 27, 2024.
The strike is in protest against the non-payment of four months’ withheld salaries.
In a circular addressed to all NASU and SSANU branch chairmen at universities and inter-university centres, JAC explained that the initial strike date of October 23 was postponed due to the NASU Trade Group Council meeting scheduled for that day.
The circular, signed by NASU General Secretary Prince Peters Adeyemi and SSANU President Comrade Mohammed Ibrahim, stated, “The strategic change in timing is for effective coordination and for both unions to be on the same page.”
The committee expressed frustration over what it sees as a lack of commitment from the government, citing an alleged inaction by the Minister of Finance despite President Bola Tinubu’s prior approval to pay 50% of the withheld salaries.
The circular read, “JAC of NASU and SSANU has issued multiple notices to the government to redress this ugly situation. However, the sincerity of the government to our cause is in doubt.”
The unions confirmed the strike would begin once NASU branch officers are in place, adding, “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.”