The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-academic Staff Union of Education and Associated Institutions (NASU) have issued a stern ultimatum to the federal government, threatening a complete shutdown of universities across the country if their demands are not considered.
SSANU President, Mohammed Ibrahim, delivered the warning during an exclusive interview on Channels TV’s Sunday Politics, emphasizing the unions’ vital role in university operations. The unions have given the government a seven-day ultimatum, starting today, to address their grievances.
The University association reiterated that Failure to meet their demands within this timeframe will result in a widespread mass action.
Meanwhile, Ibrahim highlighted the diverse responsibilities shouldered by SSANU and NASU members, ranging from security and administration to medical services and hostel management. He emphasized the integral role played by non-teaching staff, asserting that once they go on strike, no university in Nigeria can function effectively.
Expressing deep concern for the members’ plight, Ibrahim painted a grim picture of the challenges they face, including difficulties accessing fuel, scarcity of food, and inadequate medical attention. He underscored the urgency of addressing these issues, stating, “No union member wants to go on strike, but when you are pushed to the wall, what would you do? You have to push back.”
The SSANU president drew attention to the economic hardship faced by the country and the struggles of university staff, particularly those commuting to institutions located far from townships. He lamented the disregard shown towards non-teaching staff, emphasizing that no university can function without their crucial contributions.
Recalling the 2022 strike, Ibrahim highlighted the agreements reached with the government, including the assurance that salaries of striking staff would not be withheld.
However, he expressed disappointment that the government had reneged on its commitment, withholding non-teaching staff salaries until September, while only reinstating salaries for ASUU members.
