SSANU Suspends Two-Week Ultimatum Following Federal Government’s Release of Eight Months’ CONTTA Arrears Funds

The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has officially announced the suspension of its two-week ultimatum issued to the Federal Government following the approval and release of funds for the payment of eight months’ outstanding CONTTA arrears covering January to August 2026. The decision was conveyed in a formal notification dated 16 October 2026, signed by the National President of SSANU, Comrade M. H. Ibrahim, fnipr, fnils, fciml, manupa, and addressed to members of the Union’s National Executive Council (NEC). The ultimatum, which commenced on 5 October 2026, was issued as part of the Union’s efforts to secure the implementation of outstanding financial obligations arising from the 2026 Federal Government–SSANU Agreement. Following the Federal Government’s approval and release of the funds on 7 October 2026, the National Administrative Committee (NAC), acting on behalf of NEC, reviewed the development and resolved to suspend the ultimatum and the intended industrial action. The Union acknowledged the Federal Government’s positive response, describing the development as a welcome demonstration of goodwill and a significant step towards addressing the outstanding entitlements of its members. SSANU Reaffirms Commitment to Industrial Harmony The National President explained that the decision to suspend the ultimatum reflects the Union’s commitment to constructive engagement, peaceful dialogue and the preservation of industrial harmony within Nigerian universities. SSANU maintained that meaningful dialogue and mutual understanding remain essential to resolving industrial disputes, particularly where the welfare of university workers and the stability of the educational system are concerned. Union Demands Settlement of Other Outstanding Entitlements Despite the suspension, SSANU stressed that several outstanding welfare issues remain unresolved and require urgent government attention. The Union called on the Federal Government to expedite the release and payment of the outstanding one-year arrears arising from the 25% and 35% salary awards of 2023, as well as the remaining two months of salaries withheld during the 2022 industrial action. It also urged State Governments that have yet to implement the 2026 signed agreement to do so without further delay and ensure the payment of all outstanding arrears owed to SSANU members in State Universities. The Union emphasised that workers in State Universities must not be excluded from the benefits of agreements intended to improve the conditions of service and welfare of university employees. SSANU Calls for Sustained Government Goodwill While appreciating the Federal Government’s response to the CONTTA arrears demand, SSANU urged the authorities to demonstrate the same level of commitment in addressing other unresolved matters affecting its members. The Union reiterated that the suspension of the ultimatum does not diminish its determination to pursue the legitimate rights, interests and welfare of members across Federal and State Universities. Members of the National Executive Council have been directed to communicate the NAC's decision to their respective constituencies and sustain constructive engagement with relevant stakeholders. SSANU further expressed appreciation to its members for their patience, solidarity and continued commitment to the collective struggle for improved welfare and conditions of service. The Union reaffirmed its readiness to maintain peaceful dialogue with the Government while remaining steadfast in ensuring the full implementation of agreements and the settlement of all outstanding entitlements. SSANU remains committed to protecting the welfare of its members and promoting sustainable industrial harmony in Nigerian universities.