By Adams Samuel
The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) has rejected the Federal Government’s proposed 30 per cent allowance increase for non-teaching staff, insisting on parity with the 40 per cent approved for academic staff and warning of a possible nationwide shutdown of tertiary institutions.
The union stated its position at the opening of the University and Inter-University Centres Trade Group Council meeting held at Lagos State University, Ojo.
Speaking at the event, NASU General Secretary, Peter Adeyemi, described the government’s action as unfair and premature, noting that negotiations were still ongoing when the announcement was made.
“We have not concluded negotiations, yet government went ahead to ঘোষণা a 30 per cent increase. That raises serious concerns about the sincerity of the process,” he said.
Adeyemi argued that offering academic staff 40 per cent while proposing 30 per cent for non-teaching staff would further widen existing disparities within the system.
“It does not make sense to grant academics 40 per cent and give non-teaching staff 30 per cent. Even if the percentages are equal, the gap will still exist due to differences in salary structures,” he added.
He noted that NASU members across universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education have continued to honour agreements reached with other unions without enjoying corresponding benefits, warning that frustration among members is growing.
“Our members are already restive. We are nearing the end of April, and nothing concrete has been concluded,” he said.
The union called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and ensure fairness in the renegotiation process.
“If 40 per cent is given to one group, it should be extended to others. It may not be equal in value, but it will be fair,” Adeyemi stated.
Also speaking, NASU National President, Hassan Makolo, underscored the vital role of non-academic staff in the university system, cautioning against attempts to sideline the union.
“NASU is a critical component of the university system. Academic, administrative, and professional staff must work together for the system to function effectively,” he said.
Makolo warned against what he described as divide-and-rule tactics, stressing that no group within the university system is more important than the other.
He also accused some Vice-Chancellors of undermining union activities by withholding union dues, describing such actions as unacceptable.
However, he commended institutions like Lagos State University for maintaining harmonious relationships between management and unions.
Adeyemi disclosed that the Minister of Education has withdrawn the contentious circular and scheduled a fresh meeting with NASU before the end of April.
He, however, warned that failure to reach a satisfactory agreement could trigger industrial action.
“We have given notice. If nothing is resolved by the end of April, we will have no option but to shut down campuses nationwide,” he said.
He reiterated that non-teaching staff remain indispensable to the smooth functioning of tertiary institutions.
“Without non-teaching staff, the system cannot operate,” he stressed.
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