The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has announced plans to embark on a nationwide strike starting December 2, 2024, citing the Federal Government’s failure to address its longstanding demands.
Speaking during a press briefing in Kaduna on Tuesday, November 26, Comrade Abubakar J. Abdullahi, Chairman of ASUP’s Kaduna Polytechnic Chapter, confirmed the decision, explaining that the union had issued a 15-day ultimatum to the government on October 6, 2024, but received no meaningful response.
Among the union’s key demands are:
The immediate release of the second tranche of the NEEDS Assessment Intervention fund.
Full implementation of the approved 25% and 35% salary reviews across all public polytechnics.
Payment of accrued arrears, including unresolved CONTISS-15 migration benefits for lower cadres.
Settlement of outstanding promotion arrears and unpaid allowances.
Increased funding for polytechnic education.
“Regrettably, as the ultimatum has elapsed, we are yet to see any concrete actions from the Federal Government,” Abdullahi stated. “This silence and inaction have left us with no choice but to proceed with a total shutdown of polytechnics nationwide if our demands remain unmet.”
He emphasized that addressing these challenges is crucial to preserving the quality and sustainability of Nigeria’s polytechnic education system, urging the government to prioritize meaningful dialogue and immediate action.
“The future of our education sector is at stake. A strong and well-funded polytechnic system is essential for national development, and we cannot continue to compromise on these critical issues,” he added.
The proposed strike is expected to disrupt academic activities in polytechnics across the country, with stakeholders urging swift intervention to avert the shutdown.
