The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of non-teaching staff unions in Nigerian universities has announced an indefinite nationwide strike set to commence on Monday.
This decisive action comes in response to the non-payment of four months’ salaries that have been withheld from its members.
The JAC, which unites the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), made this announcement in a circular directed to all branch chairmen across universities and inter-university centers.
The circular, jointly signed by Peters Adeyemi, General Secretary of NASU, and Mohammed Ibrahim, President of SSANU, highlighted the union’s frustrations. It stated, “It is on record that JAC of NASU and SSANU has issued multiple notices to the government to redress this ugly situation. However, the sincerity of government to our cause is in doubt.”
Despite President Bola Tinubu’s approval for the payment of 50 percent of the withheld salaries, the unions expressed disappointment that none of their members had received any compensation. The circular, entitled “Latest development in respect of the withheld four months salaries,” emphasized the unions’ commitment to their cause.
“In view of this,” the leadership of JAC concluded, “the effective date for the strike be moved to midnight of Sunday, 27th October 2024. This is to allow the Branch Officers of NASU to be on ground before commencing the strike.”
The unions are keen on ensuring that this strategic change in timing allows for effective coordination and unity among members.
They expressed their gratitude for the unwavering support from their members, stating, “We express our deepest appreciation for your steadfast commitment to the leadership and we affirm our determination to persist in this struggle until ultimate victory is secured.”
