The National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the federal government, demanding the payment of five and a half months of withheld salaries among other requests. If these demands are not met, the association’s members may withdraw their services at universities.
This ultimatum was announced following NAAT’s 56th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, which took place in Taraba State.
In a letter addressed to the Minister of State for Labour and Employment and signed by NAAT President, Comrade Ibeji Nwokoma, the association warned that it would not be accountable for any consequences if their demands remain unaddressed by the ultimatum’s deadline, which began on September 30. The letter was also sent to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the National Universities Commission (NUC) and stated:
“The leadership of the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) wishes to bring your attention to the above-mentioned subject.
“Following the 56th NEC meeting at Federal University Wukari on September 25 and 26, 2024, the union felt compelled to issue a three-week ultimatum due to the government’s failure to fulfill promises regarding the payment of five and a half months of withheld salaries for NAAT members, despite a presidential directive issued over five months ago. The unresolved issues include:
– The non-release of the enabling circular on CONTISS 14 & 15 for NAAT members as per the 2017 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
– The payment of arrears of minimum wage for excluded NAAT members (from April 2019 to January 2020).
– The payment of arrears for 25% and 35% salary increases (for the period of January to December 2023).
Additionally, the association raised concerns over inadequate infrastructure, deteriorating laboratories, outdated equipment, and a lack of training for academic technologists in the use of modern technology and ICT.
The Minister is informed that if the three-week timeframe subsides without satisfactory action from the government, the union will have no choice but to initiate industrial action without further notice.”
It is important to note that NAAT previously started an industrial action on March 21, 2022, which concluded in August 2022 after multiple meetings with then Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, resulting in a resolution dated August 17, 2022. However, many of the issues that prompted the strike remain unresolved, including the incomplete renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/NAAT Agreement. The association has also voiced concerns regarding the lack of funding for upgrades to public universities’ laboratories, workshops, studios, and outdated equipment.