The Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) have embarked on an indefinite strike, effective October 28, 2024. This decision follows the federal government's failure to pay four months' worth of salaries, despite President Bola Tinubu's approval for the release of the funds.

The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of NASU and SSANU had issued a series of warnings to the government, citing unresolved issues and unmet demands. The unions claim that despite multiple notices, there has been no concrete action taken to address their concerns.

The striking unions are demanding the payment of withheld four months' salaries, renegotiation of the 2009 agreements, and implementation of President Bola Tinubu's wage award. The federal government has failed to release funds for the payment of salaries, leaving university staff without pay for months.

NASU and SSANU are seeking a review of the agreements reached with the government in 2009, citing changes in economic conditions and the need for improved welfare. The unions are also demanding the implementation of the wage increase approved by the president, which they claim has not been reflected in their salaries.

The indefinite strike is expected to shut down academic activities in universities across the country. Union members will refuse to provide essential services, including security, healthcare, transportation, maintenance, and administrative support.

Peter Adeyemi, NASU General Secretary, stated, "We have exhausted all avenues of negotiation, and the government has left us with no choice but to embark on this strike." Mohammed Ibrahim, SSANU President, emphasized, "Implementation of President Tinubu's wage award is non-negotiable. We will not back down until our demands are met."

The federal government has yet to officially respond to the strike. However, sources within the Ministry of Education indicate that efforts are underway to resolve the dispute.

The strike will likely disrupt academic calendars, causing delays in examinations and graduation ceremonies. Students may face uncertainty regarding their academic futures. Universities will also face significant challenges, including loss of revenue, damage to infrastructure, and decreased morale among staff.

The NASU and SSANU strike highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Nigerian universities. The federal government must urgently address the unions' demands to prevent prolonged disruption to academic activities.

As the strike continues, students, parents, and stakeholders anxiously await a resolution. The timeline of events leading to the strike includes the signing of agreements between NASU, SSANU, and the government on August 20, 2022, the issuance of a strike notice in October 2024, and the initial scheduling of the strike for October 23, 2024, which was later rescheduled.

To resolve the dispute, the federal government should release withheld salaries immediately, engage in meaningful negotiations with NASU and SSANU, and implement President Tinubu's wage award. By addressing these concerns, the government can prevent prolonged disruption to Nigeria's education sector.

The indefinite strike by NASU and SSANU has brought attention to the plight of university staff and the need for improved working conditions. The strike's outcome will have far-reaching implications for Nigeria's education system.