The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) has rejected the Federal Government’s offer of a 30 per cent increase in its members’ Consolidated Academic Allowance.

The association described the increment as inadequate and threatened to embark on a nationwide strike if the government does not offer a 40 per cent increase before May 1.

The general secretary of NASU, Peters Adeyemi, made this known while speaking with journalists at the regular meeting of universities and Inter-University Centres Trade Group Council.

The meeting was held at the Aderemi Makanjula Theatre Hall, Lagos State University.

Mr Adeyemi said that the union would only accept a 40 per cent increment, which the government implemented for the Academic Staff Union of Universities as from January 1.

“The simple thing is to conclude the agreement and give 40 per cent to non-teaching staff.

“That will guarantee calm and peace on our campuses. If anything contrary is done, we will shut down the system,” he said.

He emphasised the critical role of non-academic staff in the smooth running of universities, saying that institutions would not function effectively without them.

“We respect our academic colleagues, but they cannot operate without us being on duty. Our role is indispensable in the system,” he said.

He told journalists that Wednesday’s deliberations centred on the allowance renegotiation process and the rejection of the 30 per cent increment offer.

He said that the union would be compelled to take decisive action if the government does not meet its demand before May 1.

Earlier, the deputy president of NASU, Buhari Suleiman, urged the federal government to address challenges in Nigeria’s education system, as well as insecurity and economic hardship in the country.

Mr Suleiman said that the education sector, which he described as the bedrock of national development, was facing serious challenges, including poor funding, corruption, inadequate infrastructure, and failure to honour agreements with unions.

According to him, the situation requires urgent intervention to prevent further decline and reposition the education sector to meet global standards.

Mr Suleiman expressed concern over the economic hardship faced by some Nigerians, urging urgent government intervention.

“The government must take decisive steps to diversify the economy, strengthen institutions and improve the standard of living of citizens,” he said.

Mr Suleiman described corruption as a major impediment to Nigeria’s socio-economic development, urging stronger implementation of anti-corruption policies and promotion of transparency and accountability.

Earlier, the chairman of NASU, LASU Branch, Sanni Obafemi, praised the university’s management for its commitment to workers’ welfare and institutional development.

Mr Obafemi described the meeting as a platform to strengthen unity among NASU members and address issues affecting workers in universities and inter-university centres.

He thanked the Lagos State University Vice-Chancellor, Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, for pragmatic leadership, saying that her administration had contributed to Lagos State University’s improved rankings and renewed preference for the institution among admission seekers.

The chairman also lauded the university management for prioritising staff welfare and responding positively to union concerns.

He said that NASU had strengthened its role in university governance through improved representation in administrative and technical committees.

“Our unity remains our greatest strength. Together, we can overcome challenges and build a future anchored on fairness, equity and solidarity,” he said.

The meeting will continue on Thursday. 

(NAN)