The National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) has raised concerns and expressed disappointment over its exclusion from the N630 billion intervention fund released by the Federal Government to universities and tertiary institutions. The President of NAAT, Ideji Nwokoma, conveyed the union’s dissatisfaction in a statement to journalists on Sunday in Abuja.
Commending President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to improving the educational sector through infrastructural and human capital development, Nwokoma acknowledged the Federal Government’s effort in releasing the intervention funds. However, he brought attention to the fact that the Office of Accountant General of the Federation was directed to pay withheld salaries only to members of a sister union, excluding NAAT and two other university-based unions.
Describing this exclusion as unfair and unjust, Nwokoma highlighted the potential consequences, stating, “We view this attempt as unfair and unjust as it pitches the membership of our union against the leadership and is creating a charged atmosphere as it is a recipe for total disruption of academic activities in our campuses.”
Appealing to the minister, Nwokoma urged a reconsideration of the decision and emphasized the need to address the plight of NAAT members. Specifically, he requested the payment of over five-month withheld salaries, implementation of the approved 25 per cent and 35 per cent salary increase with arrears, and the release of earned allowances for NAAT members.
The union’s stance underscores the potential for disruption in academic activities if the grievances are not addressed promptly.
The situation puts the spotlight on the need for equitable distribution of intervention funds and fair treatment of all university-based unions to maintain a harmonious academic environment.
