Wrap Up Talks on 2009 Renegotiation, ASUP Tells Fed Govt
The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has urged the federal government to conclude discussions on the renegotiation of the ASUP/FGN agreement.
The union urged the government to act with sincerity and responsibility throughout the collective bargaining process, as the agreement remains central to achieving lasting industrial harmony in the Polytechnic system.
ASUP made the appeal at its 18th National Delegates Conference (NDC) jointly hosted by Plateau State Polytechnic, Barkin Ladi, and Federal Polytechnic, Mubi, Adamawa State.
Shammah Sunday Kpanja was elected President of ASUP along with other national officers of the union.
During the meeting, delegates unanimously demanded the settlement of all Consolidated Tertiary Institutions Salary Structure (CONTISS) 15 migration arrears owed to lower-cadre academic staff across institutions in the sector.
The union condemned the prolonged delay, describing it as unjust and demoralising while urging relevant authorities to treat this as a matter of priority.
ASUP also commended the National Assembly for reintroducing the Bill to abolish the long-standing HND/BSc dichotomy.
It appealed to President Bola Tinubu to assent to the Bill when passed.
“The NDC underscored the need to end this discriminatory policy to promote fairness, strengthen national unity, and modernize Nigeria’s workforce,” a communique issued by the union read.
ASUP also urged the federal government to demonstrate renewed and genuine commitment to revitalising the polytechnic system.
The NDC emphasized that the future of technical and vocational education depended on sustained investment.
It therefore demanded the immediate release of approved funds for the second round of the NEEDS Assessment intervention and called for transparent, equitable, and accountable disbursement to all eligible institutions.
The union also lamented the continued delay in the release of the revised Scheme of Service and Conditions of Service.
The union members maintained that the delay had eroded staff morale and impeded institutional growth.
The union therefore demanded the immediate approval and implementation of the revised documents, which already reflected agreed standards.
On promotion arrears and salary, the union urged all proprietors, especially state governments, to prioritise staff welfare by clearing all outstanding obligations, including promotion arrears, salary shortfalls, third-party deductions, and pension liabilities.
While acknowledging recent improvements in some institutions, delegates stressed that complete compliance remained the only acceptable standard.
Hafsoh Isiaq is a graduate of Linguistics. An avid writer committed to creative, high-quality research and news reportage. She has considerable experience in writing and reporting across a variety of platforms including print and online.
