The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) has issued a strong warning to the Federal Government, threatening to commence a nationwide strike from May 1, 2026, if unresolved allowance disputes are not settled before the deadline.
The announcement was made by NASU General Secretary, Peters Adeyemi, during a meeting of the Universities and Inter-University Centres Trade Group Council held at Lagos State University (LASU). According to Adeyemi, failure to meet the union’s demands could lead to a total shutdown of non-academic operations across tertiary institutions nationwide.
Nationwide University Strike Looms
Adeyemi emphasized that non-academic staff play a critical role in the smooth functioning of universities, warning that any disruption would significantly affect both administrative and academic activities.
“The simple thing is to conclude the agreement and give the required increment. That will guarantee calm and peace on our campuses. If anything contrary is done, we will shut down the system,” he stated.
The planned strike action is expected to impact universities and inter-university centres across Nigeria, potentially disrupting academic calendars, student services, and institutional operations.
Calls for Urgent Government Intervention
Also speaking, NASU Deputy President, Buhari Suleiman, called on the Federal Government to urgently address broader challenges facing the education sector. These include inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, and rising insecurity affecting campuses nationwide.
Suleiman warned that unresolved labour disputes and deteriorating working conditions could further weaken Nigeria’s already strained tertiary education system.
Education Sector at Risk
The Chairman of NASU, LASU Branch, Sanni Obafemi, noted that the recent meeting helped strengthen unity among union members while providing a platform to discuss pressing issues affecting workers in tertiary institutions.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that NASU has made it clear that failure to resolve the dispute before the May 1 deadline could result in a nationwide shutdown of university support services.
Implications for Students and Institutions
If the strike proceeds, students across Nigeria may face disruptions in academic activities, delays in examinations, and limited access to essential campus services. Experts warn that prolonged industrial action could further destabilize the education sector and negatively impact learning outcomes.
As the May 1 deadline approaches, all eyes remain on the Federal Government and NASU to reach a resolution that will prevent another nationwide university strike. The outcome of this dispute will be crucial in determining the stability of Nigeria’s tertiary education system in the coming months.