SSANU Rejects 30% Pay Rise, Threatens Indefinite Strike Over Unconcluded Negotiations
The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has firmly rejected the Federal Government's proposed 30 per cent pay rise, declaring that wage renegotiation has not been concluded as claimed. The union has issued a stark warning that if negotiations are not finalized by April 30, an indefinite strike action will be inevitable, potentially disrupting operations across universities, polytechnics, and colleges nationwide.
Ultimatum and Negotiation Status
SSANU had previously given the Federal Government a 30-day ultimatum to conclude renegotiations, which expires at the end of April. In a communiqué released after its Special National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on April 18, 2026, in Abuja, the union emphasized that the process remains ongoing despite seven meetings since October 2024. The communiqué, signed by SSANU President Mohammed Ibrahim, expressed serious concern over attempts to portray the process as concluded in the public domain.
The union described a circulated letter suggesting presidential approval of a 30 per cent allowance hike as a "rude shock" and a clear violation of collective bargaining principles. "NEC expressed serious concern over attempts in the public domain to portray the process as concluded, particularly through the circulation of a letter suggesting approval of a 30 per cent increase on allowances, when discussions are still in progress, and no final agreement has been signed," the communiqué stated.
Commitment to Fair Negotiations
SSANU has vowed to reject any outcome that falls below the negotiated terms reached during the renegotiation process. The association insists that fairness, due process, and collective bargaining principles must be strictly respected. "SSANU will not accept any outcome that falls below the negotiated understanding reached in the course of the renegotiation process, and insists that fairness, due process, and collective bargaining principles must be respected," they declared.
The union is acting in solidarity with the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) under the Joint Action Committee (JAC). Together, they have told the Federal Government to conclude talks by April 30 or face "indefinite, comprehensive, and total industrial action" across educational institutions.
Clarification from SSANU President
SSANU President Mohammed Ibrahim provided further clarification, stating, "We have already given a deadline: if by the end of this month the exercise is not concluded, we will mobilise our members and withdraw our services." He highlighted the vital role of non-teaching staff in universities and inter-university centres, noting their responsibilities in admissions, processing results, mobilizing students for NYSC, managing healthcare services, and providing security.
"We handle admissions, process results, and mobilise students for NYSC. We manage healthcare services, provide security... We are the ones oiling the engine. So where exactly are we lacking that we should be treated as second-class?" Ibrahim questioned, underscoring the union's demand for fair treatment and recognition of their contributions to the educational system.
The situation remains tense as the April 30 deadline approaches, with SSANU and NASU prepared to escalate actions if their demands are not met, potentially leading to widespread disruptions in Nigeria's higher education sector.
