The National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) has issued a stern warning to the federal government, giving a 21-day ultimatum to address the long-standing issue of withheld salaries and other grievances. The ultimatum was announced following NAAT’s 56th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Taraba State. If the government fails to act by the deadline, NAAT members plan to withdraw their services in universities across Nigeria.
In a letter addressed to the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, signed by NAAT President Comrade Ibeji Nwokoma, the association highlighted several unmet demands. These include the payment of five and a half months of withheld salaries, the release of a circular regarding CONTISS 14 & 15, payment of minimum wage arrears for omitted members from April 2019 to January 2020, and the disbursement of salary increases for 2023.
The letter, also sent to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the National Universities Commission (NUC), emphasized the critical state of university facilities, pointing out inadequate infrastructure, dilapidated laboratories, and obsolete equipment. The union is particularly concerned about the government’s neglect of training for academic technologists on modern equipment and information and communication technology (ICT).
“Arising from the NEC meeting held at Federal University Wukari, the union is compelled to issue this notice of a three-week ultimatum due to the government’s failure to fulfill promises regarding the payment of withheld salaries,” the letter stated. It warned that if no positive results are achieved by the ultimatum’s expiration, the union would have no choice but to initiate industrial action without further notice.
This ultimatum comes on the heels of a previous strike initiated by NAAT on March 21, 2022, which lasted until August 2022. The previous strike resulted from unresolved issues, despite a resolution reached during negotiations with the then-Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu. NAAT has expressed frustration that the federal government has not made significant progress in addressing the grievances that led to that industrial action.
The situation underscores the ongoing challenges facing Nigeria’s academic sector, with growing discontent among educators over salary issues and the deteriorating state of educational facilities. As the ultimatum progresses, many are watching to see how the government will respond to avert a potential crisis in the nation’s universities.
I think NAAT should reconsider their demands. 21 days ultimatum seems harsh. Lets be patient and give negotiation a chance.
I think NAATs ultimatum is fair, but why not focus on improving education quality instead of just salaries?
I think NAATs ultimatum is justified! Its about time the government pays attention to education sector issues. #SupportNAAT
I think NAAT should rethink their approach. Ultimatums rarely lead to productive outcomes. Dialogue is key to finding solutions.
Ultimatums can be effective in certain situations. Sometimes tough decisions are necessary for progress.
I think NAATs ultimatum is justified. The government should prioritize paying salaries over other expenditures. #PayWorkersFirst
I think NAATs demands are justified, but 21 days seems too short for the government to respond effectively. Timing is crucial here.
I think NAAT should reconsider their ultimatum strategy and focus on constructive dialogue. Lets avoid unnecessary tension.
NAATs ultimatum strategy is necessary to show strength and ensure action. Dialogue can come after.
I think NAATs ultimatum is justified, but maybe they should consider a more diplomatic approach. Negotiation is key!
I think NAATs ultimatum is justified. Workers deserve timely salaries. Government needs to prioritize this issue. Lets support NAAT!
Workers salaries shouldnt be used as leverage. NAATs approach raises ethical concerns.
I think NAAT should reconsider their ultimatum. Its a bold move, but is it the most effective way to address the issue?
NAATs ultimatum is necessary to show seriousness. Sometimes bold moves are needed to make a real impact.
I think NAAT should consider alternative strategies instead of ultimatums. Dialogue is key to resolving issues effectively.
Ultimatums can be necessary to prompt action. Sometimes tough decisions lead to progress.
I dont understand why NAAT thinks an ultimatum will solve everything. Maybe they should focus on long-term solutions instead.
I think NAATs ultimatum is justified. Teachers deserve fair treatment. Government, pay up! #SupportNAAT #FairWages
Do these NAAT demands seem reasonable or are they pushing it? Share your thoughts! #controversialopinion #NAAT #federalgovernment
I think NAATs ultimatum is justified. Its time the government addresses their demands seriously. No more empty promises.
I think the NAAT ultimatum is justified! Why should they wait 21 days for what is rightfully theirs? Time for action!
I think NAAT should rethink their ultimatum strategy. Maybe negotiation is better than threats. Just my two cents!
I think NAAT is being unreasonable with their ultimatum. They should consider the governments constraints too. #ControversialOpinion
NAAT has valid concerns. Governments need to prioritize educators safety. #SafetyFirst
I dont get why NAAT is making a fuss. Teachers should be grateful for their jobs! #controversialopinion #unpopularopinion
I think NAATs ultimatum is justified. Federal Government needs to prioritize education sector! Solidarity with NAAT! ✊🏽
NAATs ultimatum is unreasonable. There are many sectors in need of attention. Education is not the only priority.