The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has issued a strong warning to the Federal Government, threatening to embark on a total and comprehensive strike from Friday, May 1, 2026, if their demands remain unresolved. This comes as the union expressed frustration over being treated as second-class workers within the university system.
SSANU Chairman Speaks Out
Razak Yusuf Ademola, Chairman of the SSANU chapter at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), addressed the media yesterday, calling on the government to urgently address lingering welfare concerns and conclude ongoing renegotiations. He stated, "We have tried everything possible to make the Federal Government do the needful and accede to our demands. We have been on the matter for a very long time. Instead of doing the needful, the government came up with a 30 per cent increase in Consolidated Salary Structure that did not emanate from any agreement reached with us."
Key Demands and Rejection of Salary Increase
Ademola emphasized that the union has exercised patience, giving the government ample time to respond, but lamented that no meaningful action has been taken. He outlined SSANU's key demands, which include the payment of wage award arrears, two months of withheld salaries, 35 per cent salary arrears, among others. The union also rejected the recently announced 30 per cent salary increase for non-academic staff in federal tertiary institutions, noting that the issue had been communicated by Minister of Education Tunji Alausa and regulatory bodies such as the National Universities Commission (NUC), National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), and National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).
Criticism of Unilateral Decision
Ademola criticized the decision, describing it as unilateral and lacking due consultation. He further stated that the move undermines ongoing negotiations and marginalizes non-teaching staff. The union is looking forward to a meeting, but if it fails to end in an acceptable manner, there will be no option other than to proceed with an indefinite strike starting Friday.
Appeal to Government
Ademola appealed to the government to pursue harmony by acceding to their demands. The union remains hopeful for a resolution but is prepared to take action if necessary.
