The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has threatened to initiate a nationwide strike if the Federal Government fails to address its demands within a 21-day ultimatum. The warning was issued by Innocent Simji, ASUP Zone B Coordinator, during a press briefing in Bauchi on Friday, August 22, 2025.
Simji stated that the ultimatum, which began following an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja on August 14, reflects the union’s frustration with the government’s inaction on critical issues affecting the polytechnic sector. “The union resolved to issue a 21-day ultimatum to the government to address germane issues threatening the survival of the polytechnic sector,” he said, aligning the zonal chapter’s stance with the national headquarters’ resolution.
Key demands include the release of circulars by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission to cover peculiar academic allowances, payment of arrears for the 25/35 percent salary review, and the implementation of the salary review in state-owned polytechnics. Simji emphasized that these unresolved issues have placed significant strain on academic staff and the overall functionality of polytechnic institutions.
The union’s threat of industrial action comes amid growing tensions between educational unions and the government, with ASUP warning that failure to meet these demands could disrupt academic activities across polytechnics nationwide. The 21-day ultimatum is set to expire in early September, putting pressure on the government to act swiftly to avert a potential strike.
The Federal Government has yet to issue an official response to ASUP’s demands, but stakeholders in the education sector are closely monitoring the situation. The outcome of this ultimatum could have significant implications for students, staff, and the broader polytechnic education system in Nigeria.
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