By Jane Okafor, Abuja
The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has dismissed claims that its wage renegotiation with the Federal Government has been finalized, insisting discussions are still ongoing and warning of a nationwide strike if no agreement is reached by April 30.
The union had earlier issued a 30-day ultimatum to the government to conclude negotiations, stating it would embark on an indefinite industrial action if the deadline lapses without a deal.
In a communiqué released after its Special National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on April 18, 2026, in Abuja, SSANU clarified that talks remain unresolved despite seven negotiation meetings held since October 2024.
The union also condemned the circulation of a letter suggesting presidential approval of a 30 percent allowance increase, describing it as misleading and a breach of collective bargaining principles.
The communiqué, signed by SSANU President, Comrade Mohammed Ibrahim, stated: “NEC expressed serious concern over attempts in the public domain to portray the process as concluded, particularly through the circulation of a letter suggesting approval of a 30% increase on allowances, when discussions are still in progress and no final agreement has been signed.”
SSANU stressed it would reject any outcome that falls short of agreed negotiation terms. “SSANU will not accept any outcome that falls below the negotiated understanding reached in the course of the renegotiation process, and insists that fairness, due process, and collective bargaining principles must be respected,” the union declared.
The association reaffirmed its joint ultimatum with the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) under the Joint Action Committee (JAC), warning the government to meet the April 30 deadline or face “indefinite, comprehensive, and total industrial action” across universities, polytechnics, and colleges.
Reiterating the union’s stance, the SSANU President said: “We have already given a deadline: if by the end of this month the exercise is not concluded, we will mobilize our members and withdraw our services.”
Highlighting the critical role of non-academic staff in tertiary institutions, Mohammed added: “We handle admissions, process results, and mobilize students for NYSC. We manage healthcare services, provide security…
“We are the ones oiling the engine. So where exactly are we lacking that we should be treated as second-class?”
