Non-teaching staff at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), under the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), effectively shut down the institution on Monday, protesting the non-payment of withheld salaries dating back to 2022.
This action was confirmed by NASU UNILAG Chairman, Abiodun Olayinka, who warned that the university’s operations would remain grounded until the unpaid salaries are released.
He said, “Our members have given us authorisation, there’s no retreat. We are either paid or we would not resume.”
Olayinka disclosed that, despite President Bola Tinubu’s prior approval for the funds, some individuals close to the presidency are allegedly stalling their disbursement.
“The President gave approval for this payment to be made. I think there are people within the government that are holding on to the funds and do not want it released.
“They want to see what we are capable of, that is why we have opted to embark on this strike action.”
Notably, while academic staff have been paid for the same period, non-teaching staff continue to face delays.
Both academic and non-teaching staff stand united in pushing for the fulfillment of the government’s 2009 agreement with the unions.
