SSANU Threatens Indefinite Strike, Gives FG April 30 Ultimatum

SSANU Threatens Indefinite Strike, Gives FG April 30 Ultimatum

The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has issued a one-month ultimatum to the Federal Government, warning that it may embark on an indefinite nationwide strike if ongoing renegotiation talks are not concluded by April 30.

The decision was reached at the union’s 54th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held at Ekiti State University (EKSU).

In a communiqué signed by its president, Mohammed Ibrahim, the union expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of discussions, describing the process as slow and lacking clear timelines.

SSANU said the government must urgently reconvene negotiations and bring them to a definite conclusion within the stipulated period.

“Should the government fail to do so within this period, the union will have no other alternative but to liaise with its partner in the Joint Action Committee of NASU and SSANU to commence an indefinite, comprehensive and total industrial action,” the communiqué stated.

The union also decried persistent delays in salary payments and unresolved entitlements, noting that the situation has caused hardship for its members and affected productivity across universities.

“Council notes that these recurring delays have imposed severe hardship on members and their families, weakened morale, and undermined productivity across the university system,” it added.

SSANU demanded the immediate settlement of outstanding salary issues and called for a more reliable and unified payment system, recommending the adoption of the Remita platform to improve efficiency.

On earned allowances, the union criticised the handling of the N50 billion approved in 2022, saying the disbursement has been incomplete and unfair. It also faulted the exclusion of some institutions, including inter-university centres and research institutes.

The NEC further raised concerns over rising inflation and the increasing cost of living, which it said have reduced the purchasing power of university workers.

It called on the government to introduce measures such as wage review and improved social protection to ease the burden on workers.

The union also highlighted growing insecurity within and around campuses, urging authorities to strengthen security through better surveillance, improved infrastructure and enhanced welfare for security personnel.

SSANU reaffirmed its demands, including the conclusion of renegotiation talks, payment of outstanding entitlements, fair distribution of allowances and protection of jobs.

It warned that while it has shown patience, it would not hesitate to take decisive action if the government fails to meet its demands within the deadline.