University Staff Unions Launch Three-Day Strike Over Neglect and Funding Issues

Labour unions at the University of Cross River have initiated a three-day warning strike to address workers’ demands, according to an official statement. The strike, which began on Monday, August 19, involves members of the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU), the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), and the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT).

The statement, jointly signed by SSANU Chairman Mark Ayo and NAAT Chairman Vincent Etta, highlighted that the unions had previously communicated their grievances to the university authorities through correspondences dated June 11, July 15, and August 7, 2024. These correspondences provided 21-day, 14-day, and 7-day notices, respectively, for the authorities to address the workers’ demands. However, no action was taken.

The unions stated that the warning strike aims to draw attention to the neglect, hardship, and challenges faced by university staff. Key issues include inadequate funding for the university, non-implementation of the 25% and 35% consequential salary adjustments, lack of capital projects, and encroachment on university land by the host community.

The unions emphasized their role as critical stakeholders in the university’s development and expressed concern for workers’ welfare and the institution’s overall growth.