ASUP Gives Federal Gov’t 21-Day Strike Notice Over Unresolved Demands

The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has issued a 21-day strike notice to the Federal Government over unresolved issues affecting the polytechnic education sector. ASUP President Comrade Shammah Kpanja warned of a possible industrial action that could disrupt academic activities nationwide if the demands are not addressed.

The union called on the Federal Ministry of Education to quickly send an executive bill to the National Assembly to establish a dedicated regulatory body for polytechnics, similar to those governing universities. ASUP expressed disappointment over delays in legislative processes required to actualize this commission and reiterated concerns about disparities in treatment between Higher National Diploma (HND) holders and university degree holders.

The union also highlighted issues such as the non-implementation of salary reviews, payment of academic allowances, and delays in releasing intervention funds. ASUP emphasized the importance of reopening discussions on the 2010 agreement, particularly regarding payment arrears and promotions.

If the issues remain unresolved, the union may declare a trade.