The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of non-teaching staff unions in Nigerian universities, representing the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), has announced an indefinite nationwide strike beginning midnight on Sunday, October 27, 2024.

The strike is a response to the government’s delay in releasing four months of withheld salaries to union members.

In a circular to NASU and SSANU branch leaders, JAC explained that the strike, initially scheduled for October 23, was postponed to allow for a Trade Group Council meeting of NASU branches.

Signed by NASU’s General Secretary, Prince Peters Adeyemi, and SSANU’s President, Comrade Mohammed Ibrahim, the statement emphasized that the strike is a coordinated effort to ensure both unions are aligned and prepared.

Despite President Bola Tinubu’s recent approval for 50% of the withheld salaries to be paid, JAC noted disappointment in the Finance Ministry’s lack of action, questioning the government’s commitment to addressing the salary issues.

“We have issued multiple notices to the government to resolve this situation, but there are doubts about their sincerity toward our cause,” JAC stated, reaffirming its resolve to continue the strike until the withheld salaries are fully paid.