UI NASU and SAANU Threaten Industrial Action Over Failed Negotiations
The Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SAANU) at the University of Ibadan (UI) have issued a stern warning of potential industrial action, citing prolonged unresolved welfare concerns and a breakdown in communication with university management. The unions accuse the administration of neglect, poor engagement, and failure to honor prior agreements, leading to escalating tensions on campus.
NASU Highlights Entitlement Deprivation and Promotion Issues
During a recent peaceful protest, NASU Chairman Femi Ogunlade revealed that members have been deprived of their entitlements for the past three years, despite repeated efforts to engage management. He stated that numerous letters sent to the administration over time went unacknowledged, describing this as a sustained disregard for staff welfare. The union emphasized the importance of the Scheme of Service, which guides staff welfare and promotion processes, insisting that union representatives must be involved in any review. NASU alleged that management proceeded with a review without proper consultation, violating established guidelines.
Additionally, NASU complained about irregular promotion exercises across departments, noting that while some units had undergone processes, others were neglected for extended periods. The union also criticized the introduction of stricter academic requirements for promotion in certain cases, arguing these were not part of originally agreed standards. Although management later agreed that relevant training certificates could be considered for promotions, NASU reported inconsistent implementation, calling for fairness, transparency, and strict adherence to procedures.
SAANU Decries Communication Breakdown and Threatens Action
Similarly, SAANU expressed deep concern over what it described as a communication breakdown with management since 2023, stating that repeated attempts at dialogue have failed to yield meaningful engagement. The association said it had written several letters outlining grievances but received no satisfactory responses or formal negotiation invitations. SAANU Vice Chairman Olutola Olubiyi confirmed that the union has issued a notice of possible industrial action if concerns are not addressed within a reasonable timeframe. He stressed that the goal is to ensure fairness and proper administrative processes, not to disrupt academic activities.
SAANU maintained that effective institutional management requires collaboration and mutual respect between staff unions and management, adding that it remains open to constructive dialogue if properly engaged. However, the association warned that without prompt resolution, industrial action could be imminent to compel adherence to agreements and address welfare issues.
Management Unresponsive Amid Escalating Tensions
Efforts to obtain reactions from the university Registrar, Ganiyu Oke Saliu, proved abortive, as he did not respond to calls or messages by the time of reporting. This lack of response has further fueled frustrations among the unions, who view it as indicative of management's dismissive attitude toward their concerns. The situation underscores broader challenges in Nigerian university administration, where staff welfare disputes often lead to industrial actions affecting academic operations.
As the standoff continues, stakeholders are urging both parties to return to the negotiating table to prevent disruptions. The unions' demands center on transparency, equity, and respect for established procedures, highlighting the critical need for harmonious labor relations in higher education institutions.
