"SSANU and NASU Announce End to 7-Day Warning Strike, Normal Operations to Resume in Nigerian Universities"

After a week of intense industrial action, the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) have officially declared the cessation of their seven-day warning strike. This decision, communicated through a circular addressed to branch chairmen at public universities, signifies a return to normalcy as members are instructed to resume work starting Monday.

The circular, signed by SSANU President, Mohammed Ibrahim, underscored the impactful nature of the warning strike, noting widespread participation and unwavering commitment among members across various universities and inter-university centers. SSANU and NASU expressed gratitude for the dedication, resilience, and loyalty demonstrated by their members throughout the course of the union's struggle, particularly in advocating for the payment of four months' withheld salaries.

Acknowledging the concerted efforts of members, the unions emphasized the comprehensive and total engagement observed during the strike period. Following a thorough evaluation of the strike's effectiveness, SSANU and NASU jointly announced the formal conclusion of the warning strike, effective at midnight on Sunday, March 24, 2024, with regular work activities scheduled to resume the following day, Monday, March 25, 2024.

The genesis of the strike dates back to March 18, when both unions commenced the warning strike in response to the Federal Government's failure to remit withheld salaries. SSANU and NASU voiced strong disapproval of the government's decision to release funds exclusively to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), while neglecting the non-academic unions, a discrepancy deemed unjust and discriminatory.

The conclusion of the warning strike marks a significant milestone in the ongoing negotiations between the unions and the government. As the dust settles and university campuses prepare to reopen their doors, the unions remain steadfast in their commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of their members, while advocating for fair treatment and equitable distribution of resources within the educational sector.