The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) has identified several critical issues plaguing Nigeria's education sector. These include corruption, flawed government policies, inadequate funding, staff shortages, poor governance, deteriorating infrastructure, and the failure of unions to honour agreements. The union warned that both federal and state governments must take responsibility for revamping the nation's educational system by demonstrating the necessary commitment and raising standards to meet global benchmarks.
Urgent Need for Education Reform
Buhari Suleiman, Chairman and Deputy President of NASU, made these remarks at the Regular Meeting of Universities and Inter-University Centres Trade Group Council, held at Lagos State University (LASU) in Ojo. He stressed that it was high time the decadence in the sector was checked before it destroys the fabric of education in Nigeria. According to Suleiman, education in Nigeria requires urgent attention to revamp the sector and give it a competitive edge.
Economic Hardship and Governance
Suleiman also addressed other topical issues relevant to trade unionists and the country. He emphasised the severe economic hardship citizens are currently facing, noting that existing policies have reduced the living standard of Nigerians. He called on the government to take decisive action by diversifying the economy, enhancing living standards, ensuring effective governance, and building strong institutions. He noted that these steps would restore trust, promote stability, and drive progress for a brighter future.
Wage Dispute and Strike Threat
Peters Adeyemi, General Secretary of NASU, underscored the importance of non-teaching staff across academic institutions. He called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently intervene and ensure that non-academic staff unions are not shortchanged of their 40 per cent pay rise. Adeyemi threatened that an indefinite strike would be inevitable after the April 30 deadline for the Federal Government to conclude wage renegotiation. He stated, "This meeting today is clearly about our rejection of the so-called 30 per cent that has been flying everywhere. We believe that the government that concluded negotiations with academics in other institutions should allow non-academic staff to conclude their own negotiations. Let us sign agreements." He added, "Because they know the importance of non-teaching staff. Comrades, the major issue we are deliberating upon today is the renegotiation and rejection of the 30 per cent. If nothing is done before then, by May 1, visit our campuses and report what you see."
Recognition and Challenges
Vice Chancellor of LASU, Prof. Ibiyemi Bello, was recognised for her role in academic excellence and staff welfare. She commended her management team and staff for working together to achieve the feat. The National President of NASU, Hassan Makolo, also underscored the union's importance as stated in the act. Regarding universities interfering in union activities and not paying checkoff dues, the union said they would take such cases to the Ministry of Labour and, if necessary, to court. Makolo alleged that since the government migrated university-based unions from the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS) to the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS) platform, their salaries are always delayed and no longer aligned with the general federal payment schedule.
Achievements and Unity
The group's LASU Branch Chairman, Sanni Obafemi, highlighted over 19 achievements made during the past three years. He added that with unity, the union can overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and build a future that reflects the values of fairness, equity, and solidarity.
