The National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) has announced plans to hold protests across universities and polytechnic campuses nationwide.
News About Nigeria reports that this action comes in response to the federal government’s failure to pay five and a half months of withheld salaries and to address other welfare concerns.
NAAT has directed its branches in universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education to participate in the protests.
The union has issued a two-week ultimatum to the federal government, demanding resolution of these issues by November 13, 2024.
If the demands are not met, NAAT will proceed with a strike.
Comrade Ibeji Nwokoma, the President of NAAT, spoke to journalists in Abuja on Wednesday.
He expressed frustration over the government’s lack of response to previous ultimatums and efforts, including letters and meetings.
He stated, “This is the highest level of insensitivity on the part of the relevant agencies of government.”
NAAT’s grievances include the non-payment of withheld salaries, incomplete implementation of previous agreements, and other financial allowances that have not been fulfilled.
The union is also calling for better funding for public universities and the resolution of issues related to the proliferation of such institutions.
Nwokoma stated that if the government does not respond positively within the two-week period, the union will escalate its actions, potentially leading to an indefinite strike.
‘Within the two weeks’ ultimatum, branches have been directed to hold congresses and conduct referendum to decide if the union will proceed on strike once the 14-day’ ultimatum expires on the 13th of November 2024.
“If at the end of the 14-day ultimatum, no positive response from the government, the Union will embark on a national protest, which will culminate into a total and indefinite strike without recourse to the government.
“It is hoped that the government will avail itself of this window to resolve the issues on ground, with a view to averting any industrial action,” he added.
