FG releases eight months’ salary arrears to SSANU, averts looming strike

The Federal Government has released eight months' salary arrears owed to members of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), preventing a potential strike by the university workers' union. SSANU President, Mohammed Ibrahim, announced this on Wednesday in Abuja, following the union's 14-day ultimatum demanding payment of outstanding arrears stemming from the 2026 FGN/SSANU Agreement.

The union had threatened a "total, comprehensive and indefinite strike action" if demands were not met within the ultimatum. Ibrahim praised the Federal Government and Education Minister, Dr Tunji Alausa, for their intervention and urged SSANU members to work with their university administrations to ensure prompt and appropriate disbursement of the funds.

He emphasized that this development showcases the positive outcomes that can arise from constructive dialogue between government and university unions when backed by decisive action. Ibrahim cautioned that despite the release, the government remains indebted to SSANU for two months' salaries withheld during a 2022 industrial action and one-year arrears from 25% and 35% salary hikes.

He also appealed to state governments and governing councils of state-run universities to ensure the proper funding and implementation of agreements with university unions, warning that delayed or selective implementation could reignite tensions and jeopardize industrial harmony across the university system. Ibrahim reaffirmed SSANU's dedication to peaceful industrial relations while stressing the union's resolve to protect its members' rights and welfare through lawful means.

The latest payment addresses some of SSANU's persistent grievances regarding unpaid salaries and the fulfillment of previously negotiated agreements with the Federal Government.