The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions have issued a seven-day strike notice to the federal government, citing unresolved issues affecting non-academic staff in universities. The two unions expressed dissatisfaction with the disbursement of earned allowances, non-payment of outstanding allowances, and other unresolved labor matters.
In a letter dated September 12, 2025, the unions reminded the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, of a previous letter sent on June 18, 2025, which highlighted the need for intervention in outstanding labor issues. The Joint Action Committee of NASU and SSANU had convened a meeting with the Minister on July 4, 2025, to address these concerns. The key issues raised included the unjust disbursement of N50 billion earned allowances, non-payment of withheld salaries and salary increments, and the renegotiation of the 2009 agreements between the federal government and the unions.
The unions have given the federal government a seven-day ultimatum, effective from September 15, 2025, to address their grievances. If their demands are not met, they have threatened to embark on a series of industrial actions, including strikes. The unions are seeking a resolution to the long-standing issues affecting their members, which they believe are critical to the well-being of non-academic staff in universities.
The strike notice is a culmination of prolonged negotiations between the unions and the federal government. The unions have been seeking a fair and just resolution to the issues affecting their members, and the strike notice is a last resort to pressure the government into taking action. The potential strike could have significant implications for the university system in Nigeria, and it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the unions’ demands.
The federal government has been urged to take immediate action to address the concerns of the unions and prevent a disruption to academic activities. The situation is being closely monitored, and any developments will be reported as they unfold. With the seven-day ultimatum underway, the clock is ticking for the government to find a solution to the outstanding issues and prevent a potentially damaging strike.
