NAAT Accuses Federal Government of Undermining Industrial Peace in Universities

Union rejects wage offer, warns of looming disruption across tertiary institutions

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By Jamse Agbo| Abuja, Nigeria

The National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) has accused the Federal Government of actions capable of triggering an industrial crisis in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions. The union says recent decisions by government authorities undermine ongoing negotiations and threaten stability in the education sector.

At its 62nd National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held at Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja, NAAT raised concerns over what it described as prolonged neglect of the education sector and failure to address the welfare of its members.

The union noted that it has been engaged in renegotiation talks with the Federal Government since 2017 over the 2009 FGN/NAAT Agreement, which was due for review in 2012 under its three-year cycle. Over the years, several committees have handled the process, including those led by Dr Bolanle Babalakin, Prof. Munzali Jibril, the late Prof. Nimi Briggs, and the current committee chaired by Mahmud Yayale Ahmed.

NAAT acknowledged the efforts of the Yayale Ahmed committee but rejected its March 31, 2026 offer presented at the National Universities Commission, describing it as inadequate and disconnected from prevailing economic realities.

The union argued that rising costs of living, including fuel, electricity tariffs, and cooking gas, have significantly eroded the purchasing power of its members, making the offer unacceptable.

Further compounding its grievances, NAAT criticised a recent directive from the Office of the Head of the Civil Service approving a 30 per cent allowance increase for non-teaching staff without concluding negotiations with the union.

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It said the move violates collective bargaining principles and risks creating disparities within the university system.

Union Rejects Wage Adjustment, Alleges Breach of Agreement

In a communiqué signed by its National President, Ibeji Nwokoma, NAAT stated that it would resist the government’s action through lawful means, insisting that the decision reflects a “divide-and-rule” approach.

The union maintained that any unilateral implementation of wage adjustments outside agreed frameworks undermines trust and weakens industrial harmony.

Warning of Disruption in Academic Activities

NAAT called on stakeholders, including labour unions, civil society groups, and the public, to urge the Federal Government to reconvene negotiations and reach a mutually acceptable agreement.

It warned that failure to do so could result in disruptions to academic activities across universities, with potential consequences for students and the broader education system.

The dispute signals renewed tension within Nigeria’s university system, where unresolved labour issues have historically led to prolonged strikes. Continued breakdown in negotiations could disrupt academic calendars and further strain an already challenged education sector.