IKWU HAILS ADEYEMI, JAC, UNIDEL VC AND OTHERS OVER THE SUSPENSION OF NASU, SSANU STRIKE
By Ewere Okonta
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www.ewereokontablog.org.ng
The branch chairman of the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) at the University of Delta (UNIDEL), Agbor, Comrade Joel Ikwu, has expressed his deep appreciation for the remarkable efforts that led to the suspension of the nationwide strike by the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU). Speaking recently with EOB News at his office, Comrade Ikwu commended the resilience, negotiation skills, and strategic labour relations of the National General Secretary of NASU, Prince Peters Adeyemi, whose leadership, he noted, was instrumental in achieving a resolution.
Highlighting Adeyemi’s unwavering commitment to the interests of NASU members across the country, Comrade Ikwu stated, “Prince Peters Adeyemi has shown exceptional dedication and an understanding of union matters, which has strengthened our position in critical negotiations with the Federal Government. His role in managing the affairs of NASU has truly demonstrated leadership at its finest.”
Comrade Ikwu further praised the Joint Action Committee (JAC), the collaborative body overseeing NASU and SSANU, for its diligent efforts in representing the interests of non-academic staff across Nigerian universities. The negotiation process, which saw both unions engage extensively with the Federal Government, eventually led to the suspension of the strike, much to the relief of university staff and students alike. He noted that the JAC’s consistent advocacy and ability to keep union members informed about progress were pivotal in moving discussions forward and ensuring that members’ voices were heard at the national level.
Acknowledging the contribution of NASU’s National President, Comrade Ani, and other NASU executives, Comrade Ikwu remarked that their dedication in leading the union through challenging times has solidified the trust and unity within the organization. “Their collective efforts,” he said, “have not only achieved a temporary resolution but also strengthened the union’s stance on key issues that affect the welfare of non-academic staff across Nigeria.”
In his concluding remarks, Comrade Ikwu extended his gratitude to Prof. Stella Chiemeke, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Delta, Agbor. He praised her efforts in fostering an environment of industrial harmony within the institution, which, he noted, has contributed significantly to minimizing the impact of national labour disruptions on the university community. Her leadership, according to Ikwu, reflects a commitment to the well-being of both academic and non-academic staff and supports the overall goal of maintaining stability and productivity within UNIDEL.
Comrade Ikwu concluded by emphasizing the importance of continued dialogue and collaboration among all stakeholders to address lingering issues affecting university staff nationwide. He expressed hope that this temporary resolution will pave the way for lasting solutions that prioritize the welfare and career progression of NASU and SSANU members across Nigeria.
Ewere Okonta is the CEO of EOB Media. He writes from the Department of Business Administration, University of Delta, Agbor.