JUST IN :SSANU and NASU Commence Nationwide Strike Over Salary Disparities
Members of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) have initiated a nationwide strike today, citing alleged unfair treatment and discrepancies in salary payments by the Federal Government.
The strike, which began on Monday, is a culmination of unresolved grievances concerning the non-payment of 2022 arrears to the members of both unions. Despite warnings issued by the unions last Monday, the government has failed to address their demands, prompting the commencement of the industrial action.
National President of SSANU, Muhammed Ibrahim, highlighted that the strike encompasses various university departments, including Vice Chancellors, registrars, and bursars, who have been affected by the salary disparities.
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The Minister for Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, expressed ignorance regarding the planned strike, further indicating a lack of communication between the government and the unions. However, SSANU and NASU have confirmed the initiation of the strike, emphasizing their commitment to continue until their demands are met.
During the strike, essential university services such as registry, bursary, works and maintenance, security, and students' affairs have been disrupted as members of SSANU and NASU have withdrawn their services.
The strike is expected to last for seven days, during which the unions await a response from the government. Failure to address their grievances may result in further actions, as stated by the SSANU president, who emphasized the determination of the unions to pursue their demands until resolved.
The commencement of the strike underscores the ongoing challenges faced by university staff in Nigeria and highlights the need for dialogue and resolution between the government and labor unions to ensure the smooth functioning of academic institutions.