Nigerian Polytechnic Lecturers, ASUP, to Begin Nationwide Strike on Monday

The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), representing polytechnic lecturers across Nigeria, has announced plans to commence a nationwide strike on Monday, December 2, 2024.

This decision was confirmed by Abubakar J. Abdullah, Chairman of the Kaduna Polytechnic Chapter of ASUP, during a press briefing in Kaduna. The planned industrial action is a response to the Federal Government’s failure to address the union’s longstanding demands.

Abdullah stated that the union had issued a 15-day ultimatum to the Federal Government on October 6, 2024, outlining critical issues impacting polytechnics. However, the government has reportedly failed to take action.

Key Demands
Among the union’s demands are:

• Immediate disbursement of the second tranche of the NEEDS Assessment Intervention fund.
• Implementation of a 25/35% salary review across public polytechnics.
• Payment of accrued arrears.
• Resolution of CONTISS-15 migration arrears for lower cadres.
• Release of outstanding promotion arrears.
• Addressing inadequate funding and unpaid allowances.

Abdullah expressed disappointment in the government’s inaction, stating:
“As the ultimatum deadline has passed, we are left with no choice but to consider a total shutdown of our institutions starting December 2, 2024, if our concerns remain unaddressed.”

He emphasized that the union is committed to safeguarding the survival and quality of the educational system, urging the government to prioritize the education sector and engage in meaningful dialogue to resolve these issues.

The looming strike threatens to disrupt academic activities in polytechnics nationwide, further exacerbating challenges in Nigeria’s educational system.