The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), the umbrella organization representing polytechnic lecturers in Nigeria, has announced plans to embark on a nationwide strike beginning Monday, December 2, 2024. The decision stems from the Federal Government’s failure to meet the union’s long-standing demands.
This announcement was made by Abubakar J. Abdullahi, the Chairman of the ASUP Kaduna Polytechnic Chapter, during a press briefing held on Tuesday in Kaduna. He explained that the strike action became inevitable after the government failed to address critical issues outlined in a 15-day ultimatum issued by the union on October 6, 2024.
Abdullahi highlighted several unresolved issues that prompted the union’s decision, including:
The immediate release of the second tranche of the NEEDS Assessment Intervention fund.
Implementation of the approved 25/35% salary increase for all public polytechnics.
Payment of accumulated arrears, including those related to the CONTISS-15 migration for lower cadres, which has remained unresolved for decades.
Payment of outstanding promotion arrears.Addressing inadequate funding for polytechnics and settling unpaid allowances.
According to Abdullahi, the union views these demands as essential for improving the polytechnic education sector and ensuring its survival. “Regrettably, as we passed the deadline of this ultimatum, we are yet to see the necessary actions from the Federal Government to address these pressing demands. The silence and inaction have left us with no option but to consider the possibility of a total shutdown of our institutions, scheduled for December 2nd, 2024, should our concerns remain unaddressed,” he stated.
The ASUP chairman emphasized that the quality and future of Nigeria’s educational system depend on the government’s willingness to take action. He described a robust education sector as vital for national development and expressed the union’s frustration over the government’s lack of responsiveness.
Abdullahi further urged the Federal Government to engage in meaningful dialogue with the union to address the systemic challenges facing polytechnics. He reiterated that ASUP remains committed to the advancement of polytechnic education but would no longer compromise on issues that undermine its members and the sector’s progress.
The proposed strike, if carried out, would lead to the closure of polytechnics across the country, disrupting academic activities and highlighting the urgent need for reforms in Nigeria’s polytechnic education system.
