The Federal Government has taken a significant step towards addressing the lingering industrial dispute in the nation’s universities, releasing funds to settle outstanding salaries owed to members of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Federal Universities (NASU).
This development comes after the Joint Action Committee of SSANU and NASU embarked on an indefinite strike on Monday, crippling activities in universities across the country.
According to Bawa Mokwa, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, payments to NASU members have commenced, with many confirming receipt ¹. The Federal Government has also released funds for payment of benefits to retirees under the Nigerian Union of Pensioners Contributory Pension Scheme.
The strike was sparked by the non-payment of four months’ salary to NASU members, including university executives such as vice-chancellors, bursars, and registrars. The National President of SSANU, Mr. Mohammed Ibrahim, had stated that universities would remain shut until the payments were made.
The Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerian workers and retirees. This move is expected to alleviate the suffering of affected staff and retirees.
