Polytechnic workers suspend warning strike

The Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP) has suspended its three-day warning strike following a meeting with the Minister for Labour and Employment, Muhammadu Dingyadi.

Recall that the union had, last week, declared a three-day warning strike over career progression of SSANIP members to CONTEDISS 15, age-long issue of dichotomy between university and polytechnic graduates and usurpation of positions meant for members by teaching staff in polytechnics.

But in a statement yesterday by SSANIP National Secretary, Nura Gaya, the industrial action was called off following intervention by the Minister.

The statement read in part: “Arising from the notice of warning strike issued by our union, the minister for labour and employment conveyed a meeting, which was attended by key stakeholders, including representatives of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), the Federal Ministry of Education (FME), and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment (FML&E).”

At the end of the meeting, the government reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the concerns raised by SSANIP, which included the rightful progression of non-teaching staff to CONTEDISS 15.

“It was unanimously agreed that the demands of SSANIP are legitimate, and all stakeholders present pledged to work towards ensuring a resolution that upholds equity and justice within the polytechnic system.In the light of this development, the warning strike is hereby suspended forthwith, as we monitor unfolding events regarding the ongoing review of scheme of service,” Gaya stated.