Negotiations between the Federal Government and the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) ended in a deadlock on Monday, with both parties failing to reach an agreement over ongoing industrial action.
The meeting, convened at the instance of the Federal Government, was adjourned to Tuesday at 3 p.m. for further deliberations.
The impasse comes amid an indefinite strike by SSANU and NASU, which has paralysed activities across Nigeria’s public universities, shutting down administrative services, hostels, and campus clinics.
Sources at the meeting said the government appealed to the unions to suspend the strike while efforts continue to resolve outstanding issues. However, union representatives reportedly declined, noting they lacked the mandate to take such a decision without consulting their respective organs.
The dispute centres on the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement. The government had earlier announced a 30 per cent salary increase, which the unions rejected, insisting on a minimum of 40 per cent. The offer was later withdrawn by the government without formal explanation, further deepening tensions.
SSANU President, Mohammed Ibrahim, had earlier described the strike as “fully effective,” citing total compliance across institutions nationwide.
“Our position remains unchanged. We are demanding fairness, equity and proper consideration for our members,” he said, adding that the strike would continue pending a satisfactory resolution.
The impact of the strike is already being felt in several universities. At University of Maiduguri, authorities have announced the postponement of scheduled examinations due to the absence of non-teaching staff.
A directive from the Vice-Chancellor’s office indicated that the exams would be rescheduled once the strike is suspended, urging affected staff and students to take note.
The ongoing shutdown has disrupted academic calendars, delayed examinations and halted essential services, raising concerns over prolonged instability in Nigeria’s higher education system.
Despite the stalemate, observers say the rescheduled meeting offers a window for renewed dialogue, even as unions warn of deeper disruption if their demands are not met.
