The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics (SSANIP) has suspended its planned three-day warning strike, which was originally scheduled to begin on January 22, 2025. This decision comes after a successful mediation meeting facilitated by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment. The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Education, the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), and the Ministry of Labour and Employment, all working towards a resolution to the issues raised by SSANIP. The engagement was described as robust and productive, culminating in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that outlines the agreed-upon steps to address SSANIP’s concerns. The suspension of the strike provides a window of opportunity for the government to demonstrate its commitment to the agreed-upon terms and for SSANIP to monitor the progress made in addressing their demands.
Central to SSANIP’s grievances was the issue of career progression for non-teaching staff within the polytechnic system. The union argued that the current system hinders the advancement of its members to the appropriate Consolidated Tertiary Education Institutions’ Non-Teaching Staff Salary Structure (CONTEDISS) grade levels. They contended that this constituted a form of career regression, unfairly limiting their professional growth and earning potential. The mediation meeting acknowledged the legitimacy of these concerns, with all parties recognizing the need for a fair and equitable system that supports the career development of non-teaching staff. The government’s affirmation of its commitment to addressing this issue was a crucial factor in SSANIP’s decision to suspend the strike. The MoU serves as a formal commitment to resolving this matter and provides a framework for ongoing dialogue and action.
The successful mediation underscores the importance of dialogue and collaboration in resolving labour disputes. By bringing together all relevant stakeholders, the Ministry of Labour and Employment facilitated a constructive conversation that led to a mutually acceptable outcome. This approach avoids the disruption and potential negative consequences associated with a strike, allowing for continued operation of the polytechnics while addressing the underlying concerns of the staff. The signing of the MoU signifies a commitment from all parties to work together towards a lasting solution that benefits both the staff and the institutions.
SSANIP’s decision to suspend the strike demonstrates their willingness to engage in constructive dialogue and their faith in the government’s commitment to address their concerns. The union recognized the potential disruption a strike could cause to the polytechnic system and opted for a path that prioritized negotiation and collaboration. This decision reflects a commitment to finding solutions that benefit both the membership and the broader educational community. By suspending the strike, SSANIP has created space for positive engagement with the government and other stakeholders, fostering an environment conducive to reaching a sustainable resolution.
The agreement reached during the mediation meeting highlights the importance of recognizing the contributions of non-teaching staff within the educational system. Their roles are essential to the smooth functioning of polytechnics and their career progression should be supported through fair and equitable policies. Addressing SSANIP’s concerns regarding CONTEDISS not only benefits the individual staff members but also strengthens the overall polytechnic system by ensuring that qualified and experienced personnel are appropriately recognized and compensated. This in turn contributes to a more stable and productive educational environment.
Moving forward, the focus will be on implementing the agreed-upon measures and monitoring the progress made in addressing SSANIP’s concerns. The union has expressed its commitment to remaining vigilant and united in ensuring that the terms of the MoU are fully implemented. Regular communication and collaboration between SSANIP, the government, and other stakeholders will be crucial to maintaining momentum and ensuring that the agreed-upon changes are effectively implemented. This collaborative approach will help build trust and pave the way for a stronger and more equitable polytechnic system that values the contributions of all its staff members.
