The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational (NASU) and Associated Institutions has rejected the Federal Government’s proposed 30 per cent increase in its members’ Consolidated Academic Allowance, describing it as inadequate and warning of a nationwide strike if its demand is not met.
The General Secretary of the union, Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions, Mr Peters Adeyemi, disclosed this while speaking with journalists at the Regular Meeting of Universities and Inter-University Centres Trade Group Council held at Lagos State University.
Adeyemi insisted that NASU would only accept a 40 per cent increase, similar to what was granted to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), warning that failure to meet the demand before May 1 could lead to disruption in the university system.
“The simple thing is to conclude the agreement and give 40 per cent to non-teaching staff. That will guarantee calm and peace on our campuses. If anything contrary is done, we will shut down the system,” he said.
He stressed that non-academic staff play an essential role in the smooth running of universities, arguing that institutions cannot function effectively without their contribution.
“We respect our academic colleagues, but they cannot operate without us being on duty. Our role is indispensable in the system,” he added.
The meeting focused on the ongoing renegotiation of allowances and the union’s rejection of the government’s current offer.
Earlier, NASU Deputy President, Mr Buhari Suleiman, urged the Federal Government to urgently address challenges in the education sector, insecurity, and economic hardship in the country.
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He described education as the foundation of national development, but lamented poor funding, infrastructure deficits, corruption, and unresolved agreements with unions.
Suleiman called for economic diversification, institutional strengthening, and improved living standards for citizens, while also demanding stronger anti-corruption measures.
Chairman of NASU LASU branch, Mr Sanni Obafemi, praised the management of Lagos State University, led by Vice-Chancellor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, for prioritising staff welfare and improving institutional performance.
He said the meeting provided an opportunity to strengthen unity among members and address key welfare concerns affecting university workers nationwide.
The union warned that it would take decisive action if its demands are not met before the deadline, raising concerns over possible disruptions in the tertiary education sector.
