The joint action committee of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Allied Institutions (NASU) has voiced its strong disapproval of the recently proposed formula for distributing the ₦50 billion allocated by the Federal Government to university-based unions.
This ₦50 billion is intended for SSANU, NASU, and the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT).
However, in a statement, the non-academic unions expressed their deep disappointment that 80% of the funds have been earmarked solely for the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), leaving a mere 20% to be shared among SSANU, NASU, and NAAT.
Read Also: ASUU Elects New President
The unions described this allocation as “grossly unfair, provocative, totally unacceptable, and capable of creating industrial disharmony,” further emphasizing the existing divide between teaching and non-teaching staff in Nigerian universities.
They asserted that non-teaching staff are “critical stakeholders” who significantly contribute to the daily operations, administrative efficiency, research, technical functions, and overall progress of the Nigerian university system, and should not be treated as “second-class citizens.”
SSANU and NASU lamented this “inequitable distribution” as an attempt to diminish their role and worth, which they vowed to challenge.
They clarified that their concern is not about union supremacy but about “fairness, recognition, and the equitable treatment of all workers” who are essential to the university system.
The unions emphasized that a positive academic environment requires treating all stakeholders with “respect, dignity, equity, and fairness.”
They reminded the government of the vital roles played by non-teaching staff in stabilizing universities and urged them to uphold principles of equity and justice in their decisions.
SSANU and NASU called on the Federal Government to immediately reconsider and reverse the proposed allocation formula, warning that proceeding with it would lead to “avoidable resentment” and widespread industrial unrest, which the university system can ill afford.
The unions declared their unity in demanding “justice, fairness, and a recognition of our rightful place” within the university community, stating their refusal to remain passive while their rights are disregarded and their members are treated with disrespect.
They concluded by urging immediate action to rectify this “injustice.”
Join Informant Online WhatsApp Channel With Link Below: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaihFajBadmT29ufud2
