The Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP) has expressed concern over the delay in the implementation of the new minimum wage which was signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu two months ago.
The association warned that the government’s inaction is causing significant financial strain and economic hardship on Nigerian workers.
In a communiqué jointly signed by SSANIP’s President, Comrade Philip A. Ogunsipe, and Secretary, Comrade Nura Shehu Gaya, at the end of its 73rd quarterly General Executive Council meeting in Abuja, the association called on the federal government to expedite the implementation process.
It emphasised that the delay could leave workers in a state of destitution, as the current wages are inadequate to meet basic needs.
SSANIP also urged the government to honour its promise of paying the arrears of the wage award from March 2024 to date, ensuring that workers receive their due compensation until the new minimum wage is implemented.
The communiqué further said: “Council in session expressed disappointment at the reluctance of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) to constitute a committee tasked with addressing the concerns raised by various stakeholders regarding the contentious schemes of service for polytechnics.
“This is despite the directives issued by the Federal Ministry of Education on the matter. We call on the NBTE to immediately form this committee to promote industrial harmony and stability within the polytechnic system.”
Additionally, SSANIP raised concerns about violations in the appointment of principal officers in state polytechnics, particularly in Jigawa and Plateau, urging the NBTE to take action against institutions that disregard established appointment guidelines.
The association also criticised the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for overstepping its role by introducing hurdles that disrupt admission processes for ND and HND programmes.
The leaders expressed frustration over JAMB’s exclusion of Part-time ND students who are HND graduates from participating in the National Youth Service Scheme (NYSC).
SSANIP called on JAMB to focus on its statutory responsibilities and allow the NBTE to regulate polytechnic academic activities as mandated by law.
The association also decried the recent arbitrary increase in petroleum product prices, which it said has worsened the suffering of Nigerians.