Polytechnic Workers Raise Concerns Over Fuel Prices, Demands Urgent Reforms

The Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP) on Thursday called for urgent reforms in the country’s polytechnic system, expressing concern over regulatory lapses, economic hardship, current fuel prices and security challenges affecting its members and the wider public.
The union made its position known in a communiqué issued at the end of its 79th General Executive Council (GEC) meeting held in Abuja from March 30 to April 2, 2026 and signed by its national president, Comrade Philip Adebanjo Ogunsipe and Comrade Nura Shehu Gaya, national secretary.
The meeting, attended by SSANIP representatives across the country, deliberated on issues affecting the growth of the polytechnic sector and national development.

On national security, the council commended the federal government and security agencies for gains recorded in curbing criminal activities, particularly in the North-East. However, it urged authorities to intensify efforts in addressing emerging threats, citing recent attacks on civilians in Plateau State as a source of concern.
The association also decried the rising cost of petroleum products, noting that the increase in petrol prices has worsened the economic burden on Nigerians. While attributing the hike partly to global tensions, SSANIP insisted that local refining capacity should shield citizens from external shocks.
The council expressed dissatisfaction with the performance of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), accusing the regulatory body of failing in its oversight responsibilities and treating stakeholders unevenly.
It also raised concerns over alleged violations of approved procedures in the appointment of principal officers in some polytechnics, particularly in state-owned institutions.
SSANIP further urged governments at all levels to ensure prompt remittance of pension contributions and address delays in the payment of wage award arrears to its members. It noted that while some federal workers had begun receiving payments, many, especially in state institutions, were yet to benefit.
The council also demanded the immediate release and implementation of recommendations by the Yayale Ahmed Committee on renegotiation of conditions of service, describing it as critical to revitalising polytechnic education.
It additionally called on the Imo State government to remit outstanding check-off dues owed to union members at Dr. B.U. Nzeribe State Polytechnic, Awomama, warning that such practices contravene labour laws.
The communique reads in parts, “The council in session, having appraised the security situation in the country, resolved to commend the federal government for the gains recorded in restricting the activities of criminal elements operating in some parts of the country, especially the North East region.
Council therefore urges the federal government of Nigeria to do anything and everything federally possible to bring down the price of the commodity so that the already suffering citizens of the country can have a sigh of relief amidst the chaotic economic atmosphere.”

It added, “Council-in-session observes with dismay the failure to be firm in its oversight functions and low performance of our regulatory body, the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) in advancing the yearnings and concerns of stakeholders in the polytechnic system.

Council therefore calls on the federal and State governments to pay without further delay the arrears of wage even as the amount has lost its value.”