The Centre for Popular Education has commended the resilience and sacrifices of members of the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities amid the ongoing industrial action across public universities in Nigeria.
In a statement issued by the University of Ibadan branch of CEPED, the group described the unions’ struggle for improved salaries, allowances, and working conditions as a fight for the survival of Nigeria’s public education system.
The statement as signed by Sola Omoregie, Convener of the CEPED University of Ibadan Branch, noted that the unions’ consideration to suspend the nationwide strike from Monday, May 11, 2026, followed fresh commitments by the Federal Government through the Expanded Renegotiation Committee chaired by former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Yayale Ahmed.
According to CEPED, the government pledged to conclude negotiations with the unions within two weeks, raising hopes for the restoration of academic and administrative activities that have been disrupted since the strike commenced on May 1, 2026.
The group, however, stressed that the progress recorded was achieved through the persistence and determination of non-academic workers who endured the difficulties associated with the strike action.
“CEPED recognizes that this breakthrough was not handed to the unions on a platter of gold. It is the product of the steadfastness of non-academic staff who endured the hardship of industrial action while refusing to back down on the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement on salaries, allowances, and working conditions,” the statement read.
While welcoming the Federal Government’s commitment, the organisation warned against delays and unfulfilled promises, noting that Nigerian workers had repeatedly experienced failed agreements and abandoned timelines.
“CEPED welcomes the FG’s commitment but also warns that Nigerian workers have been deceived too often with empty promises and timelines that are never honoured,” the statement added.
The group called on the Federal Government to expedite negotiations and ensure compliance with the agreed timeline in order to prevent further disruption within the university system.
According to CEPED, the prolonged industrial action has negatively affected students and other members of the public university community, urging authorities to approach the renegotiation process with greater urgency and seriousness.
The organisation also advised the Joint Action Committee of NASU and SSANU to remain vigilant and ensure members stay prepared to resume industrial action if the government fails to fulfil its commitments.
Reaffirming its solidarity with the unions, CEPED stated that the struggle transcends the welfare of non-academic staff and touches on the broader issue of adequate funding and democratic administration of public universities in Nigeria.
“CEPED is a pro-workers and students initiative that strongly believes that the struggle of NASU and SSANU is not only for non-academic staff but for the survival of public education as a whole,” the statement said.
