In an effort to resolve the ongoing strike that has stalled university activities nationwide, the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) will meet with Federal Government officials today at 11 a.m. The Vice-President of SSANU, Abdussobur Salaam, confirmed on Thursday morning that the union had received an official invitation on Wednesday night.
“We received a formal invitation last night. The meeting is scheduled for 11 a.m. today and will be presided over by the Minister of State for Education in the Minister’s Conference Room,” Salaam stated.
The strike, which began on Monday, stems from four months of unpaid salaries and has seen university operations come to a halt, with 98% of JAC members participating, according to SSANU National President Mohammed Ibrahim. University executives, including Vice-Chancellors, bursars, and registrars, are also impacted by the pay freeze, adding further weight to the unions’ demands.
“This is a long-term battle, as it affects not just our members but senior university administrators who haven’t been paid. Our members are steadfast in their resolve not to return until all salaries are cleared,” Ibrahim said.
The unions are pressing for payment of back salaries, better remuneration, earned allowances, and adherence to the 2009 agreements previously reached with the government. The outcome of today’s talks will be pivotal in determining if university activities across the country can resume.
