The National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) has set a 21-day deadline for the federal government to settle five and a half months of unpaid salaries, alongside other pressing demands, or its members will cease all university activities. This ultimatum was revealed during NAAT’s 56th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Taraba State.

In a letter directed to the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, NAAT President Comrade Ibeji Nwokoma emphasized the seriousness of their situation. The letter, which was also shared with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the National Universities Commission (NUC), expressed that if no action is taken by the ultimatum’s conclusion on October 21, the union would not be liable for any consequences.

The letter detailed the ongoing concerns that led to this drastic measure, citing the government’s failure to honor commitments made over five months ago concerning salary payments, despite a presidential directive. Key issues include:

  • The absence of necessary circulars regarding CONTISS 14 & 15 for NAAT members as outlined in the 2017 Memorandum of Understanding.
  • Payment of minimum wage arrears owed to certain NAAT members from April 2019 to January 2020.
  • Settlement of salary increase arrears (25% and 35%) for the period of January to December 2023.
  • Insufficient infrastructure, including outdated laboratories, workshops, and equipment.
  • Lack of training opportunities for academic technologists to familiarize themselves with modern technologies and ICT.

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The union made it clear that if the government does not provide satisfactory responses within the three-week window, they will be forced to initiate industrial action without further notice.

Previously, NAAT engaged in industrial action from March 21, 2022, until August 2022, which concluded after negotiations with the former Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, resulted in agreements. However, the association has voiced its frustration that many of the issues that prompted the strike remain unresolved, including the stalled renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/NAAT Agreement. Furthermore, NAAT highlighted the dire need for funding to modernize facilities in public universities, as many continue to suffer from outdated equipment and infrastructure.