SSANIP urges FG panel on renegotiation of agreement to speed up work
The Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP) has called on the Federal Government’s renegotiation panel to expedite its work and deliver on key demands affecting workers in the polytechnic
- From Frank Ikpefan, Abuja
The Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP) has called on the Federal Government’s renegotiation panel to expedite its work and deliver on key demands affecting workers in the polytechnic sector.
The union made the call in a communiqué issued at the end of its 79th General Executive Council (GEC) meeting held in Abuja and jointly signed by its National President, Comrade Philip Adebanjo Ogunsipe, and National Secretary, Comrade Nura Shehu Gaya.
The union noted that although the committee chaired by Yayale Ahmed had made some progress, urgent action was needed to conclude its assignment.
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“The Council acknowledges that the Committee has made significant progress and believes that the recommendations therefrom when fully implemented promise to save the graying face of Polytechnic education in Nigeria,” the statement read.
It, however, urged the panel to fast-track its processes, stressing the importance of timely implementation of its recommendations.
“While not unmindful of the enormity of the work before the committee, the Union calls on the committee to expedite action and release for onward implementation,” SSANIP stated.
The union listed some of its key demands before the panel to include the immediate release of schemes and conditions of service, addressing the usurpation of non-teaching staff positions, and ensuring equitable access to tertiary education trust fund (TETFund) interventions.
Beyond the renegotiation issue, SSANIP also raised concerns over the rising cost of petroleum products, describing the situation as unbearable for Nigerians already grappling with economic hardship.
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“It makes no sense at all when Nigerians have to suffer the brunt… when one considers the fact that we are oil-rich,” the communiqué stated.
The union urged the Federal Government to take urgent steps to reduce fuel prices.
On national security, the union commended the efforts of the armed forces and other security agencies in tackling criminal activities, particularly in the North-East, but called for intensified efforts to curb emerging threats across the country.
SSANIP also criticised the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), accusing it of failing in its regulatory responsibilities and treating stakeholders unfairly.
“Council is compelled to conclude that it has no confidence in NBTE due to its overtly unfair treatment to certain category of stakeholders,” the statement added.
The union further decried delays in the payment of wage award arrears, non-remittance of pension contributions, and alleged violations in the appointment of principal officers in some polytechnics.
It warned that failure by relevant authorities to address these concerns could further destabilise the polytechnic system, urging both federal and state governments to act swiftly in the interest of the sector.
