The Federal Government has paid eight months’ salary arrears owed members of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, SSANU, halting a planned nationwide indefinite strike.
SSANU had issued a 14-day ultimatum to the government to clear outstanding arrears from the implementation of the 2026 FGN/SSANU agreement, threatening to embark on a “total, comprehensive and indefinite strike action” if its demands were not met.
Confirming the payment on Wednesday in Abuja, SSANU President, Mohammed Ibrahim, said the Federal Government responded swiftly to the union’s demand, a move he noted would sustain industrial harmony in universities.
He also lauded the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, for his intervention in facilitating the release.
“This is a demonstration that constructive engagement, when matched with prompt action, can protect industrial harmony and workers’ welfare,” Ibrahim said.
Ibrahim urged members across the country to work with their university managements to ensure the funds are paid promptly and appropriately.
He directed that any shortfall or irregularity should be reported to the union for necessary action.
While commending the payment, the SSANU president said more entitlements are still outstanding.
He listed two months’ salaries withheld during the 2022 strike and one-year arrears from the 25 per cent and 35 per cent salary increments.
“These are legitimate entitlements of our members and should not be subjected to further delay,” he said.
Ibrahim also called on state governments and governing councils of state-owned universities to fully implement agreements reached with university-based unions, warning that selective or delayed implementation could trigger fresh industrial unrest.
He reaffirmed SSANU’s commitment to dialogue and industrial peace, stressing that the union will continue to deploy lawful means to defend members’ welfare.
According to him, the release has reinforced confidence that engagement between government and unions can yield results for workers, students and the university system.
