The National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) has warned of a possible nationwide strike, citing stalled negotiations with the Federal Government and growing dissatisfaction over welfare issues in Nigerian universities.
In a statement signed by its President, Ibeji Nwokoma, the union said it could no longer guarantee industrial peace across campuses if urgent steps are not taken to conclude ongoing renegotiations.
Long-Delayed Agreement Sparks Tension
NAAT revealed that discussions over the review of the 2009 FGN/NAAT Agreement—due since 2012—have dragged on for nearly a decade, passing through multiple committees, including those led by Wale Babalakin (2017), Munzali Jibril (2020), and the late Nimi Briggs (2022).
The current committee chaired by Yayale Ahmed, inaugurated in 2024, recently presented an offer at the National Universities Commission on March 31, 2026—but it was rejected by the union.
“NEC-in-Session rejected the committee’s paltry offer… it fails to address economic realities,” the statement said.
Rising Costs, Poor Funding Fuel Discontent
The union stressed that worsening economic conditions—including rising fuel, electricity, and gas costs—have made the government’s proposal unacceptable.
It also criticised what it described as systemic underfunding of universities and neglect of non-teaching staff welfare.
Controversial 30% Allowance Increase
NAAT raised alarm over a government-approved 30% allowance increase for some non-teaching staff, communicated through the Office of the Head of Civil Service to the Salaries, Income and Wages Commission.
According to the union, the move was implemented without concluding negotiations and risks deepening inequality within the system.
“Such actions undermine the renegotiation process… and foster wage disparities.”
The union rejected the increment and vowed to challenge it through legal means.
Call for Urgent Intervention
NAAT called on stakeholders—including the Nigeria Labour Congress, civil society groups, religious leaders, students, and parents—to pressure the Federal Government into resuming and concluding negotiations in good faith.
It warned that failure to act could lead to widespread academic disruption.
“The government bears responsibility for impending academic disruptions and loss of institutional peace.”
Wider Crisis Looming in Universities
The development comes amid similar warnings from other unions, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions, all of which have raised concerns over unresolved agreements and poor funding.
The renewed agitation by NAAT signals a familiar pattern in Nigeria’s university system—prolonged negotiations, unmet agreements, and eventual industrial action. If unresolved, this could trigger another round of disruptions, further destabilising academic calendars nationwide.
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