Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Agency reports
Published on 2024-03-18 22:17:10
The Federal Government is calling on the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) to halt their seven-day warning strike. This appeal was made by Mrs. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, in a statement released by Mr. Olajide Oshundun, the Director of Press and Public Relations at the ministry in Abuja.
The strike was initiated by the Joint Action Committee of SSANU and NASU in protest of the non-payment of four months’ withheld salaries. This decision comes after President Bola Tinubu instructed that the university workers who went on a prolonged strike in 2022 should be compensated for the four months of salary that were withheld. The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), who were also part of the strike, have already received their withheld salaries.
Onyejeocha expressed disappointment in the actions of the unions, stating that their decision to strike disregarded the Federal Government’s efforts to address their concerns. She noted that the Ministry was not formally informed of the strike by the unions as required by the Trade Dispute Act. Despite attempts to arrange a meeting between the unions and the government, a physical meeting was not possible, leading to a tele-discussion between their leadership and the ministry.
The Ministry proposed a conciliation meeting on Monday, March 18th, in hopes of resolving the issues before the strike commenced. However, the unions rejected this date, insisting on proceeding with the strike. Onyejeocha emphasized that strikes should only be used as a last resort after all other methods of conciliation have been exhausted.
The Minister urged SSANU and NASU to reconsider their position and engage in meaningful dialogue with the federal government. She also called on all Nigerians to prioritize actions that benefit the country and its citizens.
In conclusion, the government is appealing to SSANU and NASU to reconsider their warning strike and engage in dialogue to address their issues. The Minister emphasized the importance of exhausting all avenues for resolution before resorting to a strike. By working together, the government and the unions can find a mutually beneficial solution that promotes the well-being of all Nigerians.
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