The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has directed its branches across universities and inter-university centres to begin processes that could lead to the suspension of the ongoing nationwide strike.
In a circular dated May 5, 2026, and addressed to branch chairmen, the unions disclosed that they had engaged in a series of meetings with Federal Government representatives following the industrial action which commenced on May 1.
According to the statement, the latest round of negotiations was held on Tuesday with the Federal Government’s Expanded Renegotiation Committee, led by its Chairman, Alhaji Yayale Ahmed. The meeting, described as “crucial,” focused on the unions’ demands, particularly issues surrounding the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement.
The committee reportedly informed union leaders that further adjustments to the government’s earlier offer would require the approval of the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who serves as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
Following deliberations, the JAC leadership said it considered an appeal for the suspension of the strike and secured a commitment from the government’s renegotiation team that all outstanding negotiations, including a reviewed offer on the Consolidated Tertiary Institutions Salary Structure (CONTTA); would be concluded within two weeks of suspending the strike.
Based on this development, branch leaders have been urged to convene congresses to brief members and deliberate on the proposed suspension. The circular indicates that, subject to these consultations, the strike may be suspended effective Monday, May 11, 2026.
The document also noted that engagement with relevant stakeholders would continue during the suspension period, suggesting that negotiations remain ongoing despite the planned pause in industrial action.
In addition, union leaders referenced accompanying correspondence from the Expanded Tertiary Institutions Renegotiation Committee, as well as a letter indicating the withdrawal of a previously proposed 30 percent increase in CONTTA, though further details on revised terms were not immediately provided.
The unions expressed appreciation to their members for what they described as widespread compliance with the strike directive since its commencement.
The strike, which has affected administrative and support services across federal universities, has drawn attention to longstanding issues around staff welfare, remuneration, and the implementation of prior agreements between university-based unions and the Federal Government.
