SSANIP threatens strike over unpaid salaries of polytechnic staff

The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics (SSANIP) has issued a stern warning to the Federal and State Governments over a growing list of grievances, threatening to embark on industrial action if critical demands,such as the payment of outstanding salary arrears and improved funding for polytechnics are not met.

This resolution was part of a communiqué issued at the conclusion of SSANIP’s 76th General Executive Council meeting, held at Olaitan Oyerinde Hall, Pascal Bafyau Labour House, Abuja.

The communiqué, signed by SSANIP National President Comrade Philip Adebanjo Ogunsipe and National Secretary Comrade Shehu Nura Gaya, expressed dissatisfaction with the Federal Government’s continued failure to pay the 25/35 percent salary review arrears, as well as some state governments’ refusal to implement the same for staff of state-owned polytechnics.

According to the communiqué, the delay has left members in financial distress despite repeated assurances.

“The Union will not hesitate to demand its rights, even if it means declaring industrial action,” the communiqué warned.

ALSO READ: Nigeria can’t slide into one-party state — Reps member

SSANIP also criticized the Federal Government for failing to fulfill its promise to pay five months’ wage awards to federal workers. The Council described the non-payment as a betrayal of trust and demanded immediate action.

In addition, the Union called for the full implementation of the new minimum wage signed into law on July 28, 2024, including the payment of arrears from the date of its pronouncement. It cited inflationary pressures as a major concern eroding the real value of salaries.

In a broader call for systemic reforms, SSANIP urged the Federal Government to reconstitute the renegotiation committee for the 2010 Agreement, describing it as a critical step toward resolving long-standing issues affecting staff welfare and the quality of polytechnic education in Nigeria.

The Council also demanded the urgent release of the 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025 Needs Assessment funds, which it said are essential for development projects in polytechnics.

It expressed dismay that while the university sector received N150 billion, polytechnics and colleges of education were left out.

Furthermore, SSANIP called on State Governments to review and increase the monthly subventions allocated to state-owned polytechnics, noting that current funding levels have remained stagnant and are inadequate in light of economic realities and rising operational costs.

In another development, the Union condemned the usurpation of non-teaching staff positions by academic staff in polytechnics, describing the trend as a violation of the Scheme of Service and NBTE directives. It called for immediate corrective action and adherence to proper appointment procedures.

SSANIP emphasized that continued government inaction on these issues could lead to industrial disharmony, warning of potential strikes if its demands are not urgently addressed.

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE