The National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) has issued a 14-day ultimatum to Nigeria’s Federal Government, warning of an indefinite strike if their longstanding demands are not addressed. This warning was delivered by NAAT President, Comrade Ibeji Nwokoma, during a protest at the University of Maiduguri in Borno State on Wednesday, escalating tensions within the academic sector.
Comrade Nwokoma expressed deep frustration over the government’s delays, particularly the Finance Minister’s refusal to release salaries previously approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He called the inaction “unfortunate and regrettable,” casting doubt on the government’s commitment to resolving NAAT’s grievances.
“The Honourable Minister of Finance’s failure to implement this presidential approval raises serious questions about the government’s sincerity in alleviating the suffering of Nigerians, especially our members,” Nwokoma stated.
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Representing the NAAT President, University of Maiduguri NAAT Acting Chairman, Yusuf Zangoma, highlighted the union’s demands, which include; Payment of withheld salaries, Full implementation of the 2009 FGN/NAAT Agreement, Settlement of Earned Allowances arrears and Upgrades for public university laboratories
NAAT warned that if these demands are not met by November 13, 2024, a nationwide protest and indefinite strike would commence. This ultimatum follows a similar 14-day deadline issued by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to the Federal Government, demanding renegotiation of their own 2009 agreement and the release of withheld 2022 salaries.
NAAT’s National Internal Auditor, Yusuf Bulus, urged Nigerians to intervene, emphasizing the severe impact a strike would have on students, research, and laboratory operations. “A strike would bring immense disruption, and we want to avoid that at all costs,” Bulus noted.
