Abuja Talks Stall as University Unions, FG Remain at Odds

Abuja Talks Stall as University Unions, FG Remain at Odds

Negotiations between the Federal Government and the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of university non-teaching staff unions have ended without resolution, deepening the ongoing industrial dispute affecting higher institutions across Nigeria.

The JAC—comprising the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions—met with government representatives in Abuja on Monday, but discussions failed to produce an agreement on key demands. The meeting, convened by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, has been rescheduled for May 5 to allow further consultations.

The unions commenced an indefinite strike on April 30 after the expiration of a one-month ultimatum issued to the Federal Government over the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement governing their welfare and working conditions.

At the heart of the dispute is a disagreement over salary adjustments. While the Federal Government initially proposed a 30 percent increase—later withdrawn—the unions are insisting on a 40 percent raise, arguing that it reflects fairness and aligns with current economic realities.

President of SSANU, Mohammed Ibrahim, stated that the strike has been widely observed across the country, leading to a shutdown of essential university services, including administrative offices, health centers, hostels, and finance departments.

“Our demands remain unchanged. We are asking for fairness, equity, and proper recognition of our members’ contributions. The 40 percent benchmark is the minimum acceptable position,” he said, adding that the strike would continue until tangible progress is made.

The impact of the industrial action is already being felt in several institutions. At the University of Maiduguri, management has postponed scheduled e-examinations due to disruptions caused by the absence of non-teaching staff.

In a memo issued by the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and signed by Exams and Time-Table Coordinator, Prof. Dani Mamman, the university confirmed that examinations would be rescheduled once the strike is called off.

With both sides maintaining firm positions, the outcome of the next round of talks is expected to determine whether universities can resume normal operations in the coming days.