The Nigerian government has announced the release of funds to address outstanding salaries for members of the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) at federal universities and to provide benefits for retirees under the Nigerian Union of Pensioners Contributory Pension Scheme. This decision comes as the Joint Action Committee of NASU and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has entered an indefinite strike over withheld salaries.
Bawa Mokwa, the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, confirmed that payments have begun. He stated that some NASU members have already reported receiving their salaries. Mokwa emphasized the government’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerian workers and retirees.
In a statement, Mokwa said, “The Federal Government has released funds for payment of withheld salary of Non-Academic Staff Union of Federal Universities. The government has also released funds for payment of benefits to retirees.”
The strike, which began on Monday, is fueled by frustration over delayed payments. SSANU National President Mohammed Ibrahim has highlighted the impact on university staff, saying that key university executives, including vice-chancellors and bursars, have gone without pay for four months. Ibrahim warned that universities will remain closed until all salaries are fully paid.
As the government takes steps to address these concerns, the situation continues to evolve. The commitment to release funds may help ease tensions between university staff and the government, but the outcome of the ongoing strike remains uncertain.
