ABUJA — Two major unions representing Nigerian civil servants, the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU), have announced plans to hold a nationwide protest on Thursday. The unions said the demonstration is aimed at pressuring the federal government to address lingering welfare and salary issues affecting university workers.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The announcement was made on Tuesday during separate meetings held by both unions in Abuja. SSANU and NASU leaders said that their members across the country are expected to participate in the peaceful protest.
“We have waited for too long, and our demands for better welfare and timely payment of salaries have not been met,” SSANU National President, Dr. Muhammad Tukur, said. “Our members are ready to take to the streets to make their voices heard.”
NASU National President, Comrade Ahmed Yusuf, echoed the sentiment, urging the government to engage the unions in meaningful dialogue. “The protest is a last resort. We want the government to act before the situation worsens,” he said.
The unions claim that unpaid salaries, poor working conditions, and lack of promotion for staff have remained unresolved for months. They warned that if the government fails to respond, the protest could escalate into a larger industrial action, including strikes.
In preparation for Thursday, SSANU and NASU leaders said they have mobilized members in all states, coordinating with local chapters to ensure participation. Posters, social media campaigns, and awareness programs have been launched to inform members and the public about the protest.
Analysts say the protest could significantly affect public universities, where non-teaching staff play a key role in administrative functions, maintenance, and student services. Many universities may experience disruption of services if the protest is carried out fully.
Students and parents have expressed concern about the possible impact on academic activities. “If the staff go on protest, it will affect lectures and exams,” said a student at the University of Lagos. “We hope the government and unions can resolve this quickly.”
The federal government has yet to officially respond to the announcement of the protest. However, sources within the Ministry of Labour said officials are monitoring the situation and may hold talks with union leaders to avert a nationwide disruption.
Historically, strikes and protests by SSANU and NASU have sometimes lasted for weeks, affecting universities and academic calendars. Both unions maintain that their actions are necessary to compel government action and improve working conditions for thousands of staff nationwide.
Observers note that the protest comes at a time when universities are already grappling with funding challenges and infrastructure deficits. A prolonged action could worsen the situation, potentially affecting students’ learning and public perception of the education system.
Despite the potential challenges, SSANU and NASU are standing firm on their decision to demonstrate. “We are prepared to do what is necessary,” Dr. Tukur said. “Our members deserve respect, fair treatment, and timely payment for the work they do.”
The unions have assured the public that the protest will be peaceful, urging members to follow guidelines and maintain order. They also called on the media to cover the events responsibly and avoid spreading misinformation.
As Thursday approaches, all eyes will be on the federal government and the unions to see whether dialogue can prevent a large-scale protest or whether thousands of university staff will take to the streets to press for their demands.
