Breaking: ASUP suspends 2-week warning strike, gives new instruction to members

The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has called off its two-week warning strike, instructing its members nationwide to return to work on Monday, December 16, 2024.

In a statement signed by ASUP President, Kpanja Shamnah, the union announced that the strike was suspended following a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) reached with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment during a conciliation meeting held on December 9.

ASUP had initiated the strike on December 2 to press for the resolution of nine critical demands, including issues tied to funding, salary arrears, and the implementation of agreements previously reached with the government. The industrial action was also intended as a warning ahead of a potential indefinite strike.

The union’s statement outlined the progress made during the conciliation meeting, stating:
“During the conciliation meeting on December 9, 2024, an MoU was signed, with both parties agreeing to reconvene on January 23, 2025, to assess compliance and address remaining issues. In light of this development, all members of the union are directed to resume work starting December 16, 2024.”

ASUP expressed optimism that the government would act diligently to fulfill the terms of the agreement and prevent further disruptions in the polytechnic education sector.

The union also commended its members for their resilience and commitment, urging them to remain steadfast as they await the outcomes of the January review meeting.

This latest resolution offers temporary relief to students and stakeholders in the polytechnic education system, who had faced uncertainties during the strike.

However, the union has emphasized that it will not hesitate to take further action should the government fail to meet its obligations.