The Joint Action Committee (JAC), representing non-teaching staff unions in Nigerian universities, has announced an indefinite nationwide strike set to start at midnight on October 27, 2024. This decision follows the non-payment of four months’ salaries owed to their members.

In a circular sent to branch leaders of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) on Sunday, the JAC clarified that the strike was initially scheduled for October 23 but was postponed to allow for a Trade Group Council meeting of NASU branches.

The circular, signed by Prince Peters Adeyemi, General Secretary of NASU, and Comrade Mohammed Ibrahim, SSANU President, emphasized the need for synchronized action between the two unions. “We have to do this strategic change in timing for effective coordination and for both Unions to be on the same page,” it stated.

Despite President Bola Tinubu’s approval for the payment of 50 percent of the withheld salaries, the unions expressed disappointment over the alleged inaction of the Minister of Finance, raising concerns about the government’s commitment to addressing the situation.

“It is on record that JAC of NASU and SSANU has issued multiple notices to the government to redress this ugly situation. However, the sincerity of government to our cause is in doubt,” the circular noted.

The leadership of JAC reaffirmed its resolve, stating, “We express our deepest appreciation for your steadfast commitment to the leadership and we affirm our determination to persist in this struggle until ultimate victory is secured.”