The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has formally demanded a 100% increase in salaries from the Federal Government, citing rising inflation and the escalating cost of living since their last salary review.
Dr. Abdussobur Olayiwola, SSANU’s National Vice President, revealed in an interview with Saturday PUNCH that the demand was presented during a meeting with the Federal Government’s renegotiation committee on Tuesday. This followed a 30-day ultimatum, issued by the union and signed by its National President, Muhammad Ibrahim, which ran from April 1 to April 30, 2026, calling for the completion of the renegotiation process.
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According to Olayiwola, the government’s initial offer was deemed unacceptable, prompting the union to request a review while consulting internally on possible adjustments. The meeting was subsequently adjourned for one week.
Highlighting the economic realities underpinning their demand, Olayiwola noted:
“Petrol, which sold for about ₦65 per litre in 2009, now costs between ₦1,300 and ₦1,500. Transportation, food prices, and inflation have all increased sharply.”
He added that a strictly proportional salary adjustment would amount to approximately 1,000%, but the union reduced its demand to 100% in recognition of prevailing conditions.
The union commended the Federal Government’s negotiation team, led by the Mahmud Yayale Ahmed Committee, for their commitment, even as they operated within defined limits.