SSANU Issues 14-Day Ultimatum to FG Over Unpaid Arrears

The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has given the Federal Government 14 days to settle outstanding salary arrears or face an indefinite strike.

National President Mohammed Ibrahim announced the ultimatum in a communique released Monday after the union’s 56th National Executive Council meeting held at the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom.

Ibrahim said the arrears stem from the implementation of the 2026 FGN/SSANU CONTTA salary structure, effective January 1, 2026.

He warned that failure to comply within the stipulated period would leave the union with no choice but to down tools.

“NEC categorically demanded the immediate release and payment of all outstanding arrears arising from the implementation of the 2026 FGN/SSANU CONTTA salary structure,” Ibrahim stated.

The union also demanded payment of two months’ salaries withheld during the 2022 strike, as well as arrears from the 25% and 35% salary increases.

Ibrahim described the entitlements as legitimate, stressing that delays had worsened members’ financial hardship.

He urged universities yet to implement the agreement to emulate those that had funded compliance internally, while calling on state governments to provide adequate support for their institutions.

Beyond salaries, SSANU pressed for increased investment in electricity, laboratories, libraries, ICT, and infrastructure maintenance, rejecting virtual accreditation as a substitute for physical verification.

The union also opposed any move to privatize public schools such as King’s College, Lagos.

Ibrahim further raised concerns about insecurity, rising living costs, and food shortages, urging stronger protection for farming communities and educational institutions.