University Workers’ Plight: SSANU And NASU Stand Firm Against Salary Exclusion

The plight of non-teaching staff in Nigeria’s public universities has taken a harrowing turn as they endure the painful consequences of withheld salaries….READ ALSO

Amidst the storm brewing over the exclusion of these workers from salary payments, the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) stand firm, ready to fight for justice.

The saga traces back to the prolonged strike in 2022, when university workers, frustrated by unaddressed grievances, faced the brunt of the government’s “No work, no pay” policy. While the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) spearheaded the strike, NASU and SSANU later joined, leading to a protracted battle in the National Industrial Court.

President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration obtained a favorable judgment, backing the “No work, no pay” policy. However, the exclusion of non-teaching staff from salary payments sparked outrage among SSANU and NASU members, who vowed to rectify the perceived injustice.

Speaking out, SSANU’s National President, Mohammed Haruna, shed light on the devastating toll of the strike. Lives were lost, families were evicted from homes, children were pulled out of school, and individuals faced insurmountable financial hardships. The impact rippled beyond economics, affecting the mental and emotional well-being of workers.

NAAT President, Ibeji Nwokoma, echoed the grim reality, revealing the tragic loss of over 50 members since 2022. Desperate situations pushed some to extreme measures, with several members tragically ending their own lives due to financial strain and hopelessness.

The struggle of university workers reflects a broader narrative of hardship and injustice in Nigeria’s educational sector. As they mourn their losses and navigate the challenges ahead, SSANU, NASU, and NAAT remain steadfast in their quest for fairness and accountability, refusing to relent until every member receives the wages they rightfully deserve.