SSANU Threatens Indefinite Strike, Gives April 30 Deadline to Federal Government
The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has escalated its demands by issuing a one-month ultimatum to the federal government, warning of an indefinite nationwide strike if ongoing renegotiation talks are not concluded by April 30, 2026. This decisive move follows the union's 54th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held at Ekiti State University (EKSU), where leaders expressed deep frustration over the slow and inconclusive negotiations.
Union Criticizes Lack of Commitment in Negotiations
In a communiqué signed by SSANU President Mohammed Ibrahim, the union highlighted that the negotiation process lacks commitment, clear timelines, and tangible outcomes. The union has called for the urgent resumption of talks to ensure a fair and time-bound conclusion. Should the government fail to act within the stipulated period, SSANU plans to collaborate with the Joint Action Committee of Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities and Associated Institutions to initiate an indefinite, comprehensive, and total industrial action.
Persistent Salary Delays and Withheld Entitlements
SSANU also decried persistent delays in salary payments and withheld entitlements, stating that these issues have caused severe hardship among members and weakened morale across universities. The union demanded the immediate settlement of all outstanding salary-related matters and the establishment of a reliable, unified salary payment structure. To enhance efficiency, SSANU recommended adopting the Remita platform for salary disbursements.
Concerns Over Earned Allowances and Economic Hardship
On earned allowances, the union faulted the government's handling of the N50 billion approved in 2022, noting that disbursement has been neither complete nor equitable. It criticized the exclusion of inter-university centres and research institutes from the payment process, insisting that all eligible workers must be included. Additionally, SSANU highlighted worsening economic hardship driven by inflation and rising living costs, which have significantly eroded university workers' purchasing power. The union urged the government to implement practical relief measures, including wage reviews and improved social protection.
Growing Insecurity on Campuses
The union raised concerns over growing insecurity within and around campuses, calling on federal and state governments, as well as university authorities, to strengthen security through improved surveillance, lighting, perimeter protection, and rapid response mechanisms. Better welfare for security personnel was also emphasized to ensure effective campus safety.
Reaffirmation of Demands and Call for Dialogue
Reaffirming its demands, SSANU called for the immediate resumption and conclusion of renegotiation talks, resolution of salary delays and withheld entitlements, fair disbursement of earned allowances, and protection of jobs under any reform framework. The union also advocated for the establishment of a standing consultative mechanism to ensure continuous dialogue. Despite mounting challenges, SSANU noted it has exercised patience and goodwill but threatened decisive action if the government fails to meet its demands within the given timeframe.
