Reduce fuel prices, SSANIP urges FG

Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP) has called on the Federal Government to take urgent and decisive measures to reduce the rising cost of petroleum products, warning that the current fuel price regime is worsening the economic hardship faced by Nigerians.

The union made the call in a communiqué issued at the end of its 79th General Executive Council (GEC) meeting held at the Comrade Olaitan Oyerinde Hall, Paschal Bafyau Labour House, Abuja, between March 30 and April 2, 2026.

The communiqué was jointly signed by SSANIP National President, Comrade Philip Adebanjo Ogunsipe, and National Secretary, Comrade Nura Shehu Gaya.

SSANIP acknowledged that recent increases in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, may be linked to global tensions, including the ongoing US/Israel-Iran conflict.

However, the union insisted that Nigerians should not bear the burden, especially given the country’s status as an oil-rich nation with state-owned refineries capable of meeting domestic demand.

“The Federal Government must do everything within its power to bring down the price of fuel so that citizens can experience some relief amid the prevailing economic challenges,” the communiqué stated.

On national security, the union commended the Federal Government and security agencies for progress made in curbing criminal activities, particularly in the North-East.

However, it urged intensified efforts to address emerging threats, referencing the recent attack in Jos, Plateau.

SSANIP stressed that safeguarding lives and property remains the government’s primary responsibility.

The Council also expressed dissatisfaction with the performance of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), accusing the regulatory body of failing in its oversight duties and exhibiting bias in policy implementation.

It declared a lack of confidence in the NBTE, citing what it described as unfair treatment of certain stakeholders within the polytechnic system.

On ongoing negotiations with the Yayale Ahmed-led committee, SSANIP noted progress but urged swift action to implement key recommendations.

These include the release of Schemes and Conditions of Service, addressing the alleged usurpation of non-teaching staff roles, and ensuring equitable access to TETFund interventions.

The union further condemned the violation of NBTE guidelines in the appointment of principal officers by some institutions, specifically citing polytechnics in Jigawa and Plateau states, as well as the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede.

It called on the NBTE to sanction erring institutions to restore order and compliance.

SSANIP also raised concerns over the non-remittance of pension contributions by some government employers, urging strict adherence to the Pension Reform Act.

It criticised the irregular payment of wage award arrears, noting that only a fraction of federal institution workers had received partial payments, while many state governments were yet to comply.

In addition, the union decried the non-remittance of eight months’ check-off dues deducted from staff of Dr. B.U. Nzeribe State Polytechnic, Awomama, Imo State.

It called on the state government to immediately remit the funds, warning that such actions violate Nigerian labour laws.