The recent distribution formula adopted by the Federal Government for the distribution of the $ 50 billion approved by the Federal Government for university-based unions has been rejected by the Joint Action Committee of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non Academic Staff Union of Allied Institutions (NASU).
The 50 billion will be split between SSANU, NASU, and NAAT.
The non-academic unions expressed disappointment that only 20% of the funding was split between SSANU, NASU, and NAAT, despite receiving 80% of the funding from the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
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This disparate arrangement is “grossly unfair, provocative, completely unacceptable, and capable of creating industrial disharmony,” adding to the teaching/non-teaching dichotomy in Nigerian universities.
The statement stated that the non-teaching staff at Nigerian universities are not second-class citizens but are vital stakeholders who make a significant contribution to the system’s daily functionality, administrative efficiency, research excellence, technical operations, and overall development.
The unions argued further that “we will not accept in silence” the most recent attempt to diminish our role and worth through this unfair distribution.
This is not a union-wide contest, we want to make it clear. Instead, it is about all employees, who make up the Nigerian University system’s backbone, receiving fair treatment, recognition, and equal treatment.
When all stakeholders are treated with respect, dignity, equity, and fairness, only a harmonious and productive academic environment can be created.
“The government should not be forgotten of the crucial and important roles that non-teaching staff have (and will continue to play) in stabilizing the Nigerian University system. The government and its organizations are aware of the significant contributions made by SSANU and NASU to maintaining our universities’ stability, functionality, and excellence.
Their decisions must therefore reflect this understanding and adhere to the principles of justice and equity.
The university system can ill afford this crucial situation, according to SSANU and NASU, and they urged the Federal Government to immediately review and reverse the recommended allocation formula.
Together, SSANU and NASU demand justice, fairness, and recognition of our constitutional position within the university community.
“We won’t fold our arms as our members are treated with disdain and our rights are violated.”
Source: Channels TV
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