SSANIP decries delay in review of schemes, condition of service for polytechnics, TVET institutions

The Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP) has expressed concern over the protracted delay in concluding the review of the suspended Schemes and Conditions of Service for Polytechnics and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.

In a statement by its National Secretary Comrade Nura Gaya, SSANIP lamented that the process has extended far beyond reasonable timelines.

According to the union, the persistent delay has become a matter of serious concern which has caused undue hardship to its members and placed increasing pressure on SSANIP’s leadership.

SSANIP appealed to the executive secretary of the National Board for Technical Education to intervene and ensure that the process was concluded without further delay.

The statement said: “You may recall that following five sittings of the Review Committee, the last of which held between 10th and 15th March 2025, stakeholders, including SSANIP, were invited to a final session scheduled for 7th to 10th April 2025 in Abuja.

“Delegates had made necessary preparations and travelled for this important engagement, only to be informed a few hours before the meeting of its abrupt cancellation, without any clear explanation. Subsequently, on 16th May 2025, the Committee Chairman reached out to stakeholders, citing several challenges encountered during the course of the assignment and requested relevant submissions and supporting documents to justify our positions.

“We responded promptly and submitted all required materials within the stipulated deadline of 9th June, 2025. Regrettably, despite multiple follow-ups and private assurances, there has been no tangible indication that the Committee will reconvene to conclude this critical assignment.

“This persistent delay is becoming a matter of serious concern, causing undue hardship for our members and placing increasing pressure on the Union’s leadership.

“As you are aware, unresolved labour matters often escalate when not addressed in a timely manner. Our members continue to bear the brunt of this situation.

“We must also inform you that SSANIP’s General Executive Council (GEC) meeting is scheduled for August 2025. At this meeting, critical decisions will be made. Should there be no significant progress by then, the Union may be compelled to declare an industrial dispute on this matter.

“We therefore passionately appeal to you, Sir, to kindly intervene and ensure that the process is concluded without further delay. SSANIP values the cordial relationship that exists between our Union and the NBTE, and we remain hopeful that our modest disposition and cooperative approach will be met with the attention this lingering matter deserves.”