By Mariam Aligbeh
The National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to resolve issues relating to unpaid allowances, delayed salaries, and other outstanding demands.
The warning followed the union’s 60th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on Monday in Abuja.
Speaking after the meeting, NAAT President, Mr. IbejiNwokoma, said the union was compelled to issue the ultimatum due to the government’s failure to implement agreements reached during previous negotiations with the Ministers of Labour and Employment, and Education.
He warned that if the government failed to act within two weeks, the association would have no choice but to embark on industrial action.
Nwokoma recalled that a conciliation meeting held on 30 July with the Minister of Labour, and another on 11 September with the Minister of Education, had produced no tangible outcome.
He listed the unresolved issues as the completion of the renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/NAAT Agreement, mainstreaming of earned allowances, and release of the circular for CONTISS 14 and 15 salary structures.
According to him, the renegotiation committee chaired by Mahmud Yayale Ahmed met with NAAT only once in December 2024, yet reportedly submitted a report to the government without further consultation.
“NAAT rejects and cannot accept the idea of disparity and distortions in the salary tables of university staff. Salary increment should be comprehensive and all-encompassing,” Nwokomasaid.
He further expressed concern that persistent salary delays had deepened the economic hardship facing members.
“Our members are struggling to survive under the current economic conditions. We cannot continue to tolerate neglect,” he said.
Nwokoma added that while the association remains open to dialogue, it expects the government to act swiftly and in good faith to prevent a fresh disruption in the university system.
He appealed to the Federal Government to avoid actions that could trigger another crisis in the education sector.
