The Nigerian university system may face another major setback as the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) have announced plans to embark on an indefinite nationwide strike starting October 6, 2025. The decision comes after years of unfulfilled promises by the Federal Government regarding the 2009 Agreement, unpaid allowances, withheld salaries, and unresolved welfare issues affecting non-teaching university staff.
This development is creating anxiety among students, parents, and education stakeholders, as another disruption in academic and administrative activities could worsen the already fragile state of Nigeria’s higher education sector.
Background: The 2009 Agreement Between Federal Government and University Unions
The 2009 Agreement was signed between the Federal Government of Nigeria and various university-based unions, including ASUU, SSANU, NASU, and NAAT. The agreement covered:
- Salary structure and wage increases for university staff.
- Earned allowances for academic and non-academic workers.
- University funding for infrastructure and academic development.
- Improved welfare conditions for staff.
While the government has implemented certain aspects of the agreement, many provisions remain unfulfilled, especially those relating to non-teaching staff. This has led to repeated industrial actions over the years.
Why SSANU and NASU Are Going on Strike in October 2025
According to SSANU and NASU leaders, several unresolved issues triggered the indefinite strike:
1. Non-implementation of the 2009 Agreement
The unions accuse the government of ignoring collective bargaining agreements and renegotiation efforts that have been pending for over a decade.
2. Earned Allowances (₦50 Billion Demand)
- Out of the ₦50 billion Earned Allowances negotiated for university staff, only ₦10 billion has reportedly been allocated to non-teaching staff unions (SSANU, NASU, and NAAT).
- This distribution is seen as unfair and discriminatory, with academic staff receiving a larger share.
3. Withheld Salaries from the 2022 Strike
- Many SSANU and NASU members have not received their salaries that were withheld during the 2022 nationwide industrial action.
- The unions demand immediate payment, stressing that workers cannot be punished for exercising their right to strike.
4. Non-remittance of Deductions
- Third-party deductions such as cooperative contributions, welfare dues, and union check-off dues have allegedly not been remitted by the government.
5. Poor Funding of Education
The unions also highlight broader systemic issues:
- Underfunded universities.
- Dilapidated infrastructure across campuses.
- Insecurity and poor learning environment.
- Government’s failure to prioritize the education sector despite repeated promises.
Likely Impact of the SSANU and NASU Strike on Nigerian Universities
If the strike commences on October 6, 2025, the following disruptions are expected:
- Administrative shutdown: Admission processing, record-keeping, and exams coordination may halt.
- Non-academic services crippled: Library, ICT units, laboratories, and health centers could be affected.
- Financial services affected: Students may face delays in school fee payments, transcripts, and clearance.
- Maintenance challenges: Electricity, water supply, and campus security could be disrupted.
- Extended academic calendar: Students may face prolonged semesters and delayed graduations.
Government’s Response to SSANU and NASU Ultimatum
The Federal Government has yet to provide a conclusive solution. Previous negotiations have often ended in partial implementation or delays, fueling distrust between the unions and the government. Stakeholders believe that if the government fails to act promptly, Nigeria may witness yet another paralyzing university shutdown similar to past prolonged strikes.
What This Means for Nigerian Students
- Students may be forced to stay at home indefinitely, wasting valuable academic time.
- Final-year students awaiting clearance, mobilization for NYSC, or graduation could face major setbacks.
- The uncertainty could worsen the “brain drain” syndrome, as many Nigerian students and parents increasingly seek admission in private or foreign universities.
FAQs on SSANU and NASU Strike 2025
1. When will SSANU and NASU strike begin?
The indefinite strike is scheduled to start on October 6, 2025.
2. Why are SSANU and NASU going on strike?
They are protesting the Federal Government’s failure to fully implement the 2009 Agreement, unpaid earned allowances, withheld salaries, and poor university funding.
3. How will the strike affect students?
University operations may shut down, disrupting admissions, exams, administrative processes, and general campus services.
4. Has the Federal Government responded?
As of now, the government has not provided a clear solution, but discussions are ongoing.
5. Could this strike be called off?
Yes, if the Federal Government meets the unions’ demands before October 6, 2025.
Conclusion
The looming SSANU and NASU indefinite strike of October 6, 2025, is a reminder of Nigeria’s recurring university crisis rooted in unfulfilled agreements, poor funding, and government neglect. Unless urgent action is taken, another shutdown could cripple academic progress and frustrate thousands of students.
For stakeholders, this is a critical moment for decisive negotiation to avoid plunging Nigerian universities into yet another cycle of disruption.
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