Gombe Tertiary Institutions Launch Indefinite Strike Over Demands

On October 19, 2026, the Joint Union of Gombe Tertiary Institutions (JOUGTIN) announced an indefinite strike starting at midnight, following the expiration of a one-month period granted to the Gombe State government to address outstanding issues. The affected institutions include the College of Education in Billiri, Gombe State Polytechnic in Bajoga, College of Health Science and Technology in Kaltungo, and College of Education and Legal Studies in Nafada.

JOUGTIN comprises five unions: COEASU, ASUP, SSUCOEN, SSANIP, and NASU. The unions had previously issued a 14-day ultimatum on August 17, which expired without a satisfactory response, leading to a two-week warning strike beginning September 2.

Despite the government's request for more time during a meeting on October 17, no concrete offer was made. The unions' demands include the implementation of national minimum wage provisions, salary adjustments, and payment of outstanding increments.

JOUGTIN expressed regret for the disruption caused but emphasized the importance of addressing these demands for staff welfare and institutional stability.