Emmanuel OchayiThe Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has made a resounding call for the swift implementation of salary increments of 25% and 35% for workers in tertiary institutions.
The call comes directly from Mr. Mohammed Ibrahim, the National President of SSANU, who conveyed the union’s demands during a communique released on Monday in Abuja.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThis announcement follows the conclusion of the 45th regular National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, held at the University of Maiduguri in Borno, where matters of national significance were addressed, with particular attention to the ongoing renegotiation of salaries for SSANU members.
The renegotiation process, initially led by the late Prof. Nimi Briggs, is in its final stages. Mr. Ibrahim noted that while SSANU had initially requested a substantial 700% wage increase, the committee’s offer now stands at 23.5% and 35% for its members.
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Mr. Ibrahim stated, “The recent announcement for approval of an increment of 25 and 35% for tertiary institution workers by the government which was circulated in the social media is not a product of collective bargaining agreement with the university-based unions.”
He further urged both Federal and State Governments to promptly implement the increment and pay the arrears without delay.
The SSANU president also brought attention to a provisional allocation of N100 billion for the salary review of workers in tertiary institutions that has yet to be put into effect.
Additionally, the NEC expressed concern over the withholding of four months salary arrears of its members during the last nationwide strike, describing this action as insensitive and inconsiderate.
Mr. Ibrahim urged the government to promptly release the withheld salaries, taking into account the harsh economic realities faced by citizens due to hyperinflation.
Regarding the renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/SSANU Agreement, the statement said, “NEC in session agreed that now that ministers have been appointed, the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman should hit the ground running as directed by the president. This will go a long way in addressing all industrial disharmony between the government and the university-based unions.”
Furthermore, NEC demanded that the government promptly reconstitute the renegotiation committee with experienced university administrators and ensure they complete their assignment within a reasonable timeframe.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
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