The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has announced the suspension of its two-week warning strike. The union has instructed members nationwide to return to work starting Monday, December 16, 2024.

ASUP had launched the strike on December 2, 2024, as a response to the government’s alleged neglect of Nigeria’s polytechnics. This action aimed to bring attention to unresolved issues affecting the sector.

According to ASUP National President, Shammah Kpanja, the strike was suspended following a productive meeting with officials from the Ministry of Labour and Employment. During this meeting, both parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to address the union’s demands.

Kpanja further stated that another meeting has been scheduled for January 23, 2025. This follow-up session will evaluate the government’s progress on fulfilling the agreement and address any remaining concerns.

In his statement, Kpanja explained that the two-week strike was a warning measure to urge the government to act swiftly. He emphasized that the strike was also a precursor to a possible indefinite strike if issues remained unresolved.

The Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment organized a conciliation meeting on December 9, 2024, to prevent an indefinite strike. At the meeting, both sides agreed to the MoU and committed to revisiting the situation in January 2025.

The union has promised to review the government’s actions during its National Executive Council meeting, which will take place before the January follow-up. In the meantime, ASUP members are expected to resume their duties.

This decision to suspend the strike brings temporary relief to the polytechnic education sector, but all eyes remain on the January meeting to see if lasting solutions will be achieved.