In a surprising turn of events, the Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the release of funds aimed at settling outstanding salaries owed to members of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Federal Universities (NASU) and providing benefits to retirees under the Nigerian Union of Pensioners Contributory Pension Scheme. This announcement comes as many universities across the country remain paralysed due to an ongoing strike initiated by NASU and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU).
Details of the Fund Release
The announcement was made on November 2, 2024, through a statement from Bawa Mokwa, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF). According to Mokwa, payments to NASU members have already commenced, with many employees confirming receipt of their salaries. The OAGF reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the welfare of Nigerian workers and retirees.
The funds released are intended to cover four months’ worth of withheld salaries that have led to widespread discontent among university staff. The delay in payments had prompted NASU and SSANU to declare an indefinite strike starting on October 29, 2024, effectively shutting down academic activities in federal universities across Nigeria.
Background: The Strike and Its Implications
The strike was triggered by unresolved issues regarding salary payments, including inconsistencies in disbursements through the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), non-payment of earned allowances, and unpaid arrears related to the national minimum wage. The unions expressed frustration over what they described as the government’s failure to uphold previous agreements, warning that continued neglect could lead to a total breakdown of industrial harmony within universities.
In an earlier statement, Mohammed Ibrahim, National President of SSANU, highlighted that university executives—including vice chancellors, bursars, and registrars—had not received salaries for four months. He emphasised that without timely payments, universities would remain completely shut down, affecting students’ education and academic calendars.
Reactions from Stakeholders
The announcement of fund releases has been met with cautious optimism among union members. While many are relieved to see action taken by the government, there is still concern about whether these payments will address all outstanding issues adequately. Union leaders have called on stakeholders and Nigerians at large to continue advocating for fair treatment and timely remuneration for university staff.
One thing is certain: the future stability of academic institutions in Nigeria hinges on effective dialogue and commitment from all parties involved to ensure that educational standards are upheld amidst financial challenges.
By Joseph Johnston,
Youth Editor,
Egogonews Hub
