By 9jaeye 
The non-academic staff unions of Nigerian universities, represented by the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions NASU, commenced an indefinite strike on Monday, October 28, 2024. This action follows prolonged disputes with the federal government over unpaid salaries dating back to 2022.
The withheld salaries stemmed from an eight-month strike by university unions in 2022. During this period, the previous administration enforced a “No Work, No Pay” policy, leading to the withholding of four months’ salaries for non-academic staff members, even though the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has since received payment for their own arrears. The ongoing strike aims to address this perceived disparity, which has fueled discontent among non-academic staff members across the country.
SSANU National President Mohammed Ibrahim and NASU General Secretary Peters Adeyemi jointly announced the strike, directing members in universities and inter-university centers nationwide to suspend all administrative and maintenance operations. The unions also directed members to convene on-campus congresses to reinforce the strike action, emphasizing that they would accept no compromises until the government fully addresses their demands.
Prolonged Discontent and Calls for Government Action
Union leaders report that, despite issuing numerous deadlines and ultimatums over recent months, their efforts have yet to produce results. They expressed frustration at the lack of engagement from government officials, who they say continue to ignore their demands. The unions also directed members to convene on-campus congresses to reinforce the strike action, emphasizing that they would accept no compromises until the government fully addresses their demands.
The union leaders caution that if this situation remains unresolved, university operations will remain at a standstill, potentially affecting the academic calendar and student welfare. They highlighted the critical roles their members play in maintaining campus operations, from security and maintenance to student affairs and administration. This disruption, they assert, underscores the importance of fair treatment for all university staff members.
Urgent Plea for Equitable Treatment
The unions have called on the government to address their grievances urgently to prevent further hardship for non-academic staff, who have already endured significant financial strain due to the withheld payments. They contend that a unified response from the government to all university staff, rather than selective settlements, is crucial to maintain harmony and stability within Nigeria’s higher education system.
This strike signifies an ongoing struggle between university staff and government bodies over labor rights and financial justice, with both sides under increasing pressure to negotiate a resolution to avoid prolonged disruptions in Nigeria’s universities.
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