Abuja Talks Collapse As University Unions, FG Disagree

Talks between the federal government and the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of the non-teaching staff unions in universities ended in deadlock on Monday in Abuja, as key issues remained unresolved

The JAC comprises the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU).

The meeting, convened by the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, was adjourned to May 5 at 3 p.m. for further negotiations.

SSANU and NASU began an indefinite strike on April 30 following the expiration of a one-month ultimatum to the federal government over the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement.

The unions are protesting the federal government’s proposed 30 per cent salary increase, insisting on a 40 per cent adjustment through collective bargaining.

The federal government had earlier withdrawn the 30 per cent offer, a decision the unions described as unilateral and lacking proper consultation.

Speaking on the industrial action, SSANU President, Mr Mohammed Ibrahim, said the strike was fully complied with nationwide, paralysing administrative and essential services in universities.

“Our demands remain unchanged. We are demanding fairness, equity and proper consideration for our members.

“The 40 per cent benchmark is the minimum acceptable position for us, and the strike continues until meaningful progress is achieved,” he said.

Ibrahim said administrative offices, clinics, hostels and finance departments had been shut across universities due to total compliance with the strike directive.

“Our position remains the same. We are asking for fairness and equity, and nothing has changed,” he said.

Meanwhile, the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) has postponed its e-examinations due to disruptions caused by the strike.

The institution, in a memo issued by the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and signed by the Exams and Time-Table Coordinator, Prof. Dani Mamman, said that the examinations would be rescheduled until the strike was suspended.

“In view of the non-teaching staff strike, the above examinations will be rescheduled until the current strike is suspended.