The Federal Government has released funds to settle outstanding salaries owed to Non-Academic Staff Union of Federal Universities (NASU) members, according to a statement by Mr. Bawa Mokwa, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF).
Payments have commenced, with many NASU members confirming receipt.
This move addresses longstanding salary arrears and demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting federal university staff. The government also released funds for benefits to retirees under the Nigerian Union of Pensioners Contributory Pension Scheme Sector (NUPCPS).
The development comes as NASU and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) embarked on a nationwide strike on Monday.
The strike, set to continue for seven days, protests disparities in payments among universities’ unions. The unions had issued a seven-day ultimatum, urging the Federal Government to address their grievances.
SSANU President Mohammed Ibrahim emphasized that the strike would persist unless the government meets their demands. The unions’ action highlights the need for prompt resolution to avoid prolonged disruption in the education sector.
The Federal Government’s swift response in releasing withheld salaries and benefits signifies a step towards addressing workers’ concerns.
However, the ongoing strike underscores the need for continued dialogue to resolve outstanding issues and ensure the well-being of Nigerian workers and retirees.
