By Abigail Philip David
The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics (SSANIP) has suspended its planned three-day warning strike, which was set to begin today, January 22, 2025.
In a statement signed by SSANIP’s National Secretary, Nura Gaya, and shared with the Press on Wednesday, the decision followed a meeting facilitated by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.
The meeting, chaired by the Minister of Labour and Employment, brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the National Board for Technical Education, the Federal Ministry of Education, and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.
Describing the meeting as “robust and productive,” Gaya confirmed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by all parties at the end of the discussions.
The government, according to the statement, reiterated its commitment to resolving SSANIP’s concerns, particularly the career progression of non-teaching staff to the CONTEDISS salary structure.
“The demands of SSANIP were acknowledged as legitimate, and all stakeholders agreed to work collaboratively toward a resolution that promotes fairness and justice within the Polytechnic system,” Gaya said.
He further announced that the strike was suspended immediately to enable the union to monitor progress on the review of the schemes of service.
SSANIP had initially declared the strike to protest the perceived career regression of its members within the civil service.
Expressing appreciation to its members for their solidarity, the union urged them to remain united while awaiting the implementation of the agreed measures.
“We commend all members for their vigilance and patience. Let us continue to stay united as we ensure that the agreed actions are implemented,” the statement concluded.