Academic and non-academic staff of higher institutions in Nasarawa State, under the Joint Unions of Nasarawa State Tertiary Institutions (JUNTSI), have commenced a two-week warning strike over the non-implementation of the N70,500 minimum wage approved for workers in the state.
The affected institutions include Isa Mustapha Agwai I Polytechnic, Lafia; College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Lafia; and the College of Education, Akwanga.
In a statement co-signed by JUNTSI Chairman Samson Kale-Gbande and Secretary Paul Olotu, the unions lamented that their members had yet to benefit from the earlier N30,000 minimum wage, consequential adjustments, and due promotions granted to other state workers.
The statement noted that the strike, which began at midnight on Sunday, February 9, 2025, would last until Thursday, February 27, 2025. It added that the decision was necessary due to the state government’s failure to address the union’s demands despite repeated appeals and an ultimatum issued on January 15, 2025.
“The strike action became imperative owing to the inability of the state government to address the union’s demands,” the statement read in part.
In response, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Abdullahi Sule on Public Affairs, Peter Ahemba, assured that the government was making efforts to resolve the matter. He appealed to the striking workers to return to their duties to prevent disruptions to the academic calendar and allow for a smooth negotiation process.
“The state government is concerned about the strike because it could affect the ongoing semester. However, talks are ongoing with union leaders to find a resolution that benefits all parties,” Ahemba said.
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