SSANU Accuses Federal Government of Unfair Treatment Over Salary Delays, Warns of Possible Industrial Action

The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has raised serious concerns over what it describes as continued unfair treatment by the Federal Government, citing delays in salary disbursement, breach of agreements, and discriminatory allocation of earned allowances. The union has warned that unless immediate corrective measures are taken, it may be forced to pursue lawful industrial actions.

The position was outlined in a communiqué issued after SSANU’s 51st National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, held at Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil, Kano State. The statement, signed by the National President, Mr. Mohammed Ibrahim, was made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Salary Disbursement Delays: A Call for Equity

SSANU strongly criticised the delay in salary payments to non-teaching university staff, calling it “discriminatory” and demanding that the Federal Government harmonise salary disbursement timelines across all Federal and State institutions.

“This discriminatory practice is both unjust and unacceptable,” Ibrahim said.
“The union demands the immediate harmonisation of salary disbursements to ensure fairness and equity.”

The union emphasized that prompt payment is a fundamental labor right and essential to maintaining trust within the university workforce.

Withheld 2022 Salaries: A Stain on Government Goodwill

Another major grievance is the Federal Government’s continued withholding of two months’ salaries from SSANU members who participated in the 2022 nationwide industrial action. The union described the action as a breach of trust and a hindrance to efforts aimed at restoring peace in the education sector.

“NEC, therefore, urges the federal government to immediately release the outstanding withheld salaries as a demonstration of good faith and commitment to restoring industrial harmony,” Ibrahim stated.

Breach of Agreements: MoUs and MoAs Ignored

SSANU also accused the government of violating multiple collective agreements, including Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and Memoranda of Action (MoAs), that were signed following structured negotiations.

“These agreements were reached through mutual consent and are legally binding,” Ibrahim said.
“If this pattern of neglect continues, the union will be left with no choice but to explore all lawful and appropriate avenues to compel compliance.”

Controversy Over Earned Allowance Distribution

A key flashpoint in the union’s discontent is the distribution of the N50 billion Earned Allowance. SSANU claims that only 20% of the allocation was given to non-teaching staff unions—SSANU, NASU, and NAAT—in contravention of the 2022 agreement signed with the Joint Action Committee (JAC).

“This allocation is unjust, discriminatory, and fails to acknowledge the indispensable role SSANU members play in the effective functioning of Nigerian universities,” the communiqué read.
“It is also in breach of the MoU signed with JAC in August 2022.”

Renegotiation Deadlock: FG/SSANU 2009 Agreement Stalled

The union also expressed deep frustration over the continued silence of the Federal Government’s Renegotiation Committee regarding the 2009 FG/SSANU Agreement, calling the lack of progress unacceptable.

“We expected meaningful engagement and closure on this long-standing issue, but the government’s inaction has only deepened distrust,” Ibrahim noted.

National Insecurity and Broader Concerns

Beyond internal union matters, SSANU also used the NEC platform to draw attention to the spate of killings in Benue, Plateau, and other states, urging the government to prioritise national security and protect lives.

A Commitment to Dialogue and Reform

Despite its grievances, SSANU reiterated its commitment to national development and expressed a willingness to support educational reforms through professional contributions and constructive dialogue.

“We remain committed to supporting the Federal Government’s efforts to reform the education sector but expect the same commitment and sincerity in return,” Ibrahim concluded.

Final Thoughts

The rising tensions between SSANU and the Federal Government underscore broader issues plaguing Nigeria’s education system—underfunding, poor labour relations, and policy inconsistency. As unions push for accountability and fair treatment, the government faces renewed pressure to meet its obligations and restore industrial peace across universities.

The education sector stands at a crossroads—one that demands urgent, transparent, and sustained intervention.