The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) have commenced a nationwide indefinite strike. This action stems from the Federal Government's alleged inaction in finalizing the renegotiation of the 2009 agreements for non-teaching staff unions and the rejection of a 30 percent pay increase for workers in the sector.
Union Leadership Issues Strike Directive
In a circular addressed to all branch chairmen of NASU and SSANU in universities and inter-university centres, the union leadership announced the strike. The circular, signed by NASU General Secretary Peters Adeyemi and SSANU President Mohammed Ibrahim, expressed frustration over the slow pace of renegotiation talks. The unions had set an ultimatum for the government to meet their demands by April 30, 2026, warning that industrial action would be inevitable if no progress was made.
Meeting with Education Minister Fails to Resolve Issues
The national leadership of the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of NASU and SSANU revealed that they held a meeting on Wednesday with the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, and other senior government officials. During the meeting, the unionists outlined their demands and reiterated their rejection of the 30 percent CONTTA award letter currently in circulation.
According to the union leaders, the government team appealed passionately for the strike notice to be rescinded. However, no new offer was presented to supersede the 30 percent CONTTA award, and there was no definite commitment on when the renegotiation process would be completed.
Union Members Mandate Full Approval of Demands
The circular emphasized that the union members had mandated that only the full approval of their demands, as outlined in letters referenced JAC/NS/VOL.III/63 and JAC/NS/VOL.III/65 dated March 27 and April 18, 2026, respectively, would be acceptable. After due consultation, the leadership resolved to uphold this mandate.
Consequently, the unions directed all members to commence a total and comprehensive strike action across all universities and inter-university centre campuses from 12:00 a.m. on May 1, 2026. The circular concluded by urging all NASU and SSANU members to comply with the directive for the survival of their existence in the system.
