The National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) has rejected the proposed 30 percent salary increment for academic and non-teaching staff in federal universities, describing it as provocative and inadequate in addressing current economic realities.
The position was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of its 62nd National Executive Council (NEC) meeting and signed by its President, Ibeji Nwokoma.
NAAT accused the Federal Government of promoting a divide-and-rule approach within the university system, warning that such actions could destabilize industrial harmony among academic unions.
The association said the proposed salary adjustment fails to reflect the rising cost of living, including increases in fuel, cooking gas, and electricity tariffs.
It further argued that the unilateral implementation of the 30 percent increase without full agreement from the union undermines ongoing renegotiation processes, violates collective bargaining principles, and creates wage disparities within the system.
NAAT also expressed concern that the Federal Government has not concluded renegotiations since 2017, alleging that recent circulars on salary adjustments were issued without proper consultation with relevant unions.
The association noted that similar proposals have been rejected by other university unions, including the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), adding to growing tension in the education sector.
It warned that it would resist the implementation of the salary award through all legal means if necessary, insisting that proper negotiation procedures must be followed.
NAAT reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare of its members and called on the government to return to the negotiation table in good faith to avoid further industrial disputes.
