The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics has voiced alarm over the Federal Government’s continued refusal to settle outstanding promotion arrears owed to polytechnic workers, warning that the situation is worsening an already fragile labour climate.
Speaking at the union’s 78th General Executive Council meeting held on Thursday at the Comrade Olaitan Oyerinde Hall, Labour House, Abuja, National President Philip Ogunsipe said the challenges facing non-academic staff have been compounded by rising insecurity, economic hardship and persistent threats to workers’ welfare.
Ogunsipe criticised what he described as the government’s sluggish handling of sectoral reforms. He noted that authorities have delayed the release of new Schemes and Conditions of Service for the Polytechnic sector and failed to conclude the renegotiation of the 2010 Agreement despite multiple assurances. He also lamented the non-release of the 2023 NEEDS Assessment Funds, which are intended for critical infrastructural upgrades.
The SSANIP president further condemned the National Board for Technical Education for submitting a reviewed Schemes of Service to the Federal Ministry of Education without following agreed labour procedures, calling the move a “breach of trust.”
According to the union, unpaid obligations still include promotion arrears, 25% and 35% salary review arrears, wage award arrears and incomplete implementation of the new national minimum wage. Ogunsipe appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene urgently, warning that continued inaction could set the stage for industrial unrest.
National Secretary Nura Gaya echoed the call for decisive government action and encouraged workers to remain steadfast despite the challenges. National Trustee Godwin Ikhide also urged members to maintain high performance levels and advised labour unions to stay united in pursuing shared objectives.
SSANIP maintains that its advocacy centres on securing better welfare and working conditions for its members, insisting that a prompt response from the Federal Government is essential to avert further tension in the Polytechnic sector.
