In a major development for Nigeria’s higher education sector, 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), has announced the suspension of their ongoing indefinite strike, effective from Tuesday, November 5, 2024.
This decision follows recent breakthroughs in negotiations with the Federal Government.
The strike, which began on October 28, 2024, was fueled by what the unions described as “government’s insensitivity” to their demands, including unpaid salaries and other entitlements.
After weeks of intense discussions with key government officials, including the Minister of Education, Minister of Finance, and Department of State Services (DSS), the government has committed to a staggered payment of two out of four months of withheld salaries.
The first installment was released at the end of October, with the second expected by the end of November.
Encouraged by these steps and reassurances from the new Education Minister, JAC leaders instructed NASU and SSANU branches to convene meetings on Monday, November 4, to inform members of the latest developments and urge them to resume work the following day.
In addition, JAC noted that talks on remaining salary arrears, a ₦50 billion Earned Allowances fund, and wage adjustments are ongoing.
In a joint statement, SSANU President Mohammed H. Ibrahim and NASU General Secretary Prince Peters A. Adeyemi thanked members for their “unwavering resolve and steadfast support” during the strike, expressing hope for a lasting resolution that meets the needs of Nigeria’s university staff.