Negotiations between the Federal Government and university non-teaching staff unions ended without agreement on Monday in Abuja, prolonging an industrial action that has disrupted activities across Nigerian universities. The meeting, convened by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, sought to resolve disputes over salary adjustments and the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement but concluded in a deadlock, with both parties unable to reach a compromise. Talks have been adjourned to Tuesday, 5 May, at 3 p.m. for further deliberations.
The Joint Action Committee (JAC), comprising the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU), commenced an indefinite strike on 30 April. The action followed the expiration of a one-month ultimatum issued to the Federal Government, after which the unions insisted on a 40 per cent salary increase, rejecting the government’s earlier proposal of 30 per cent.
The Federal Government initially tabled a 30 per cent salary increment but subsequently withdrew the offer, a move the unions described as unilateral and lacking adequate consultation. This development further entrenched the dispute, culminating in the ongoing strike.
Speaking on the situation, SSANU President, Mr. Mohammed Ibrahim, stated that the strike had been fully observed nationwide, effectively shutting down key university operations. He noted that administrative offices, health centres, hostels, and finance departments had ceased functioning due to widespread compliance by members.
“Our demands remain unchanged. We are demanding fairness, equity, and proper consideration for our members,” Ibrahim said. “The 40 per cent benchmark is the minimum acceptable position for us, and the strike will continue until meaningful progress is achieved.”
He reiterated that the union’s position remained firm, emphasising that workers were committed to sustaining the strike until their demands were addressed. “Our position remains the same. We are asking for fairness and equity, and nothing has changed,” he added.
Meanwhile, the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) has announced the postponement of its ongoing e-examinations as a direct consequence of the strike. In a memorandum issued by the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and signed by the Examinations and Timetable Coordinator, Prof. Dani Mamman, the institution confirmed that the examinations would be rescheduled.
“In view of the non-teaching staff strike, the above examinations will be rescheduled until the current strike is suspended,” the statement read.
The industrial action continues to disrupt both academic and administrative activities nationwide, heightening concerns among students and stakeholders as negotiations resume.
