Students Face Nationwide Disruption as NASU and SSANU Commence Indefinite Strike May 1

The academic calendar across Nigerian public universities faces a fresh wave of instability as the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) officially declared a total and indefinite strike.

The industrial action is scheduled to take effect nationwide from midnight on Friday, May 1, 2026.

Why the Unions Are Shutting Down Operations

This escalation follows the expiration of several ultimatums issued to the Federal Government. The unions are protesting the “slow pace” of the renegotiation of the 2009 Agreement and the government’s failure to present a fresh, acceptable offer on allowances.

Earlier this year, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) secured a 40% salary increase. In contrast, the non-academic unions were offered a 30% rise, which they rejected, citing a lack of collective bargaining and an unfair disparity between academic and non-academic staff welfare.

While a last-minute meeting was held on Wednesday, April 29, between union leaders and the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, the government failed to provide a concrete financial counter-offer to replace the contentious 30% proposal.

Impact on Campus Activities

With this strike, students should prepare for a total withdrawal of essential services. The unions have directed members in the following departments to down tools:

University Registries and Bursaries: Processing of transcripts, certificates, and financial records will cease.

Libraries and Laboratories: Access to research facilities and study halls will be restricted.

Security and Maintenance: Campus power supply, water distribution, and security patrols are expected to be severely impacted.

Health Centers: Non-emergency medical services handled by administrative staff will be unavailable.

Localized Strike at UNIJOS

While the national strike begins tomorrow, the University of Jos (UNIJOS) branch of ASUU has already been on an indefinite strike since April 8, 2026. Their specific grievances center on the non-payment of March 2026 salaries and the exclusion of Earned Academic Allowances (EAA).

As at the time of this report, the Federal Government has not released a statement regarding the strike commencement for May 1st. Students are advised to monitor official campus communication channels for updates regarding their specific institutions.