The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has expressed concern over the security challenges confronting the nation.
The union said the recent abduction of students and teachers in Niger and Kebbi States highlighted a dangerous trend that threatens education at all levels.
SSANU therefore urged the federal and state governments to prioritise security in all educational institutions by deploying modern surveillance technology in schools.
The union said this during its 53rd National Executive Council (NEC) at the University of Jos, Plateau State, where it reviewed the state of the nation, assessed developments in the Nigerian university system, and deliberated on issues affecting the welfare of its members.
The union stated in a communique signed by its National President, Comrade Mohammed Ibrahim, “NEC expressed deep concern over the worsening insecurity across the country, especially the spike in kidnappings targeting schools and university environments. The recent abduction of students and teachers in Niger and Kebbi States highlights a dangerous trend that threatens education at all levels.
“The Council calls on the Federal and State Governments to prioritize security in all educational institutions by deploying modern surveillance technology, strengthening perimeter protection, and improving intelligence and community-based security systems. University security architecture must be upgraded, and staff must be covered by comprehensive health and life insurance.”
The NEC also expressed dissatisfaction with the longstanding marginalisation of non-teaching staff in both the payment of Earned Allowances and the government’s renegotiation engagements.
It insisted that the ₦50 billion agreed upon in the 2022 MoU/MoA must be released without further delay and that Inter-University Centres and research institutes, wrongly excluded in previous disbursements, must be fully included in the next payment.
According to the union, the continued denial of financial entitlements to its members was unacceptable and would attract firm, coordinated action.
“NEC further reviewed the activities of the expanded renegotiation committee and noted that the government has failed to make a substantial commitment to SSANU, even while giving preferential treatment to others.
“This pattern reflects a deliberate and persistent exclusion of non-teaching staff. The Council resolved that if the government fails to conclude credible renegotiations and present a realistic offer by December 31st, 2025, SSANU will be compelled to initiate total, comprehensive, and system-wide industrial action in 2026 to defend the rights and dignity of its members,” the communique said.
It added, “The 53rd NEC Meeting reaffirmed the commitment of SSANU to defend the welfare, rights, and dignity of its members. The Council calls on government at all levels to take urgent steps to address the issues raised and engage constructively with non-teaching staff who form the backbone of Nigeria’s universities.
“SSANU will continue to pursue dialogue, but it will not hesitate to take lawful action where necessary to protect its members and secure the future of the Nigerian university system.”
