The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics has called off its planned three-day warning strike, which was slated to begin today, January 22, 2025.
This decision was disclosed in a statement issued by SSANIP’s National Secretary, Nura Gaya, and shared with The PUNCH on Wednesday.
According to Gaya, the suspension followed a conciliatory meeting facilitated by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.
Chaired by the Minister of Labour and Employment, the meeting brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the National Board for Technical Education, the Federal Ministry of Education, and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.
Gaya described the engagement as “characterised by robust engagement” and noted that a Memorandum of Understanding was signed by all participants at the conclusion of the session.
In the statement, the government reiterated its commitment to addressing the union’s concerns, particularly the proper career advancement of non-teaching staff to the CONTEDISS level.
“The demands of SSANIP were unanimously agreed to be legitimate, and all stakeholders present pledged to work towards ensuring a resolution that upholds equity and justice within the Polytechnic system,” Gaya affirmed.
The union clarified that the strike was suspended “forthwith” to enable the monitoring of progress on the ongoing review of schemes of service.
Initially, SSANIP had declared the strike to protest what it described as the career regression of its members in the civil service.
In the statement, the union expressed appreciation to its members for their patience and support throughout the dispute.
“We commend all members for their vigilance and urge everyone to remain united as we await the implementation of the agreed measures,” Gaya noted.
