Victoria Mbangwa
The President of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Comrade Mohammed Ibrahim, has cautioned against internal sabotage within the labour movement, stating that it is hindering efforts to secure workers’ rights, including the full implementation of the new ₦70,000 national minimum wage.
Speaking at SSANU’s National Leadership Retreat in Abuja, Ibrahim decried the actions of some union members who allegedly work against collective struggles, weakening strike actions and negotiations. He stressed that unity and discipline are critical for labour victories.
He said, “The problem with the government and employers of labour is insincerity. The national minimum wage has been signed into law, and payments should have commenced nationwide. However, in many universities and states, the wage is treated as just an award without full implementation.”
“By the end of this first quarter, any state or employer of labour that refuses to implement the national minimum wage and consequential adjustments will face the consequences. The labour laws are there, and we have all it takes to enforce workers’ rights.”
His comments come amid rising tensions over the failure of some state governments and institutions to implement the new minimum wage and the consequential salary adjustments. Ibrahim, who is also the National Internal Auditor of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), reiterated that by the end of the first quarter of 2025, any state or employer failing to comply will face serious consequences.
He also addressed concerns about corruption within government institutions, particularly reports that lawmakers allegedly demanded ₦8 million from university vice-chancellors during budget defense sessions. Ibrahim condemned the allegations and warned that the labour movement would not hesitate to confront the National Assembly if necessary.
“If this allegation turns out to be true, it is unfortunate. No public university in Nigeria has enough resources even to pay its electricity bills. Many have operated without electricity for months. Where will they get ₦8 million to give lawmakers?
“The National Assembly is not too big for us to fight. We will fight them and chase out those not working for the good of the people. We will only support progressives.
“work against our collective struggle through blackmail and underhand dealings. This is not unique to SSANU; it happens across sectors. This retreat aims to educate members on the importance of unity and discipline.” Ibrahim stated.
The SSANU president further called for improved funding for universities and continuous capacity building for staff, stating that tertiary institutions must remain centers of learning and innovation.
“Universities must remain centers of learning and innovation. Continuous capacity building for staff is essential. As SSANU leaders, we must equip ourselves with global best practices and share this knowledge at all levels.” He added.
