Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has warned that it may embark on an indefinite nationwide strike if federal government fails to conclude ongoing renegotiation talks by April 30, 2026.
Gatekeepers News reports that the decision was announced in a communiqué issued after the union’s 54th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held at Ekiti State University.
The statement, signed by SSANU president Mohammed Ibrahim, expressed dissatisfaction with what the union described as slow and inconclusive negotiations with no clear timeline or tangible outcomes.
SSANU gave the government a one-month ultimatum, stressing that discussions must be urgently reconvened and concluded within a defined timeframe.
The union warned that failure to meet this deadline would leave it with no other alternative than to begin “an indefinite, comprehensive, and total industrial action” in collaboration with its Joint Action Committee partners.
The union also raised concerns over persistent delays in salary payments, withheld entitlements, and unpaid allowances, noting that these issues have caused severe hardship for members, weakened morale, and affected productivity across universities.
On earned allowances, SSANU criticised the handling of the N50 billion approved in 2022, alleging that disbursement has been incomplete and unfair, with some institutions and workers excluded.
Beyond welfare issues, the association highlighted the broader economic challenges facing its members, including rising inflation and cost of living, which it said have significantly reduced workers’ purchasing power. It called on the government to implement relief measures such as wage reviews and improved social protection.
SSANU further expressed concern over insecurity within and around university campuses and urged authorities to strengthen security infrastructure and improve welfare for security personnel.
Reaffirming its stance, the union stated that it has exercised patience but is prepared to take decisive action if its demands are not met within the stipulated deadline.
