SSANU warns FG, threatens strike over delayed renegotiation

The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities has issued a fresh warning to the Federal Government over ongoing renegotiation talks, threatening to embark on an indefinite strike if discussions are not concluded by the end of April.

The union’s position was contained in a communiqué released after a special National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Abuja. The statement, signed by its National President, Muhammad Ibrahim, clarified that negotiations with the government are still in progress and no final agreement has been reached.

SSANU expressed concern over what it described as misleading reports suggesting that the renegotiation process had been concluded, including claims of an approved 30 per cent increase in allowances. The union insisted that discussions remain ongoing and that no binding agreement has been signed.

It stressed that any outcome must reflect the understandings reached during negotiations, warning that it would reject any deal that falls short of expectations or violates principles of fairness and collective bargaining.

Reaffirming its earlier ultimatum issued alongside the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions, SSANU said the government has until April 30, 2026, to conclude talks and formalise agreements.

The union warned that failure to meet the deadline would trigger a comprehensive and indefinite industrial action involving both unions.

SSANU also called on its members nationwide to remain calm but prepared, urging unity and readiness to comply with any directive from the leadership.

The warning follows earlier concerns raised by the union over salary delays, inadequate funding of universities, and worsening working conditions, which it said must be addressed as part of the renegotiation process.