Students of the University of Ibadan on Wednesday took to campus roads in a peaceful protest against the shutdown of essential amenities caused by the ongoing nationwide strike by the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities.
- +VIDEO: UI students protest over NASU, SSANU strike
Footage from the scene posted by Channels TV shows dozens of students gathered on major roads within the university, with some sitting in the middle of the carriageway.
Footage from the scene posted by Channels TV shows dozens of students gathered on major roads within the university, with some sitting in the middle of the carriageway.
Tree branches and debris were placed across pathways, temporarily disrupting vehicular movement.
Students, many in casual attire, were seen standing, walking along the roadsides and engaging in discussions, while some were playing football.
The protest stems from the indefinite strike declared by the Joint Action Committee of NASU and SSANU, which began on May 1, 2026, following the expiration of an ultimatum to the Federal Government.
The unions are demanding the conclusion of the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement on welfare, salaries and allowances.
As a result of the industrial action, non-academic services across federal universities, including UI, have been paralysed.
Hostels, administrative blocks, water supply, electricity and internet services have been affected, leaving students grappling with basic living challenges during the academic period.
However, PUNCH Online had earlier reported that the staff had moved to suspend the strike.
In a circular sent to branch chairpersons, obtained by our correspondent on Wednesday morning, the unions said they had secured a firm commitment from the Federal Government to conclude all outstanding renegotiations within two weeks of suspending the industrial action.
The circular indicated that the breakthrough came after a crucial meeting with the Federal Government’s Expanded Renegotiation Committee, led by a former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Yayale Ahmed.
According to the unions, the government explained that any further review of its earlier offer would require the approval of President Bola Tinubu.
“The leadership of JAC considered the passionate appeal for the suspension of the ongoing strike action and also extracted a commitment from the FGN Expanded Renegotiation Committee that all renegotiations, including a reviewed offer of the Consolidated Tertiary Institutions Salary Structure (CONTISS), shall be concluded in two weeks from the date of the suspension of the strike,” the statement read.
