The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has called on the Federal Government to urgently conclude ongoing negotiations with university unions.
The union also urged Nigerians to embrace unity, sacrifice, and fairness in an Eid-el-Fitr message signed by its National President, Comrade Mohammed Ibrahim on Friday in Abuja.
He noted that despite these challenges, SSANU members have remained committed to sustaining Nigeria’s higher education system.
He, however, warned that such sacrifices must not be taken for granted, urging the Federal Government to hasten the renegotiation process with SSANU and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU).
According to him, delays in concluding the negotiations have continued to create uncertainty and undermine confidence among workers, stressing that a fair and sincere agreement is essential to national development.
The SSANU president further called on governments at all levels to implement practical measures to cushion the effects of inflation, including improved welfare packages, wage adjustments, and policies that restore dignity to labour.
He emphasised that the stability of Nigerian universities depended largely on how well workers are supported, noting that their contributions are critical to the country’s progress.
Ibrahim congratulated members of the union, the Muslim Ummah, and Nigerians at large on the successful completion of the holy month, commending the discipline and devotion demonstrated during the fasting period.
He described Ramadan as a time of spiritual renewal, sacrifice, and submission to the will of Almighty Allah, praying for acceptance of the faithful’s and continued blessings for the nation.
The SSANU leader also used the occasion to express deep concern over recent security challenges, particularly the tragic bombings in Maiduguri.
He extended condolences to affected families and communities, calling the incidents “senseless acts of violence” and stressing the urgent need to safeguard lives and restore peace across the country.
Addressing economic realities, Ibrahim highlighted the severe impact of rising inflation and the high cost of living on university workers and their families.
Ibrahim also urged Nigerians to strengthen unity beyond ethnic, religious, and regional differences, stressing the need for collective effort in building a just and prosperous nation.
“As we celebrate, we must remain steadfast, hopeful, and committed to the ideals we represent. Better days must not only be hoped for, but actively pursued,” he said.
The SSANU president prayed for peace, stability, and progress in Nigeria, while wishing Muslims a joyous Eid celebration.
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