2009 FG/ASUU Pact: CONUA Voices Support for NAMDA Amidst Looming Work Stoppage

The Congress of University Academics, CONUA, has thrown its weight behind the National Association of Medical and Dental Academics, NAMDA, in its quest for the Federal Government to expedite negotiations regarding the 2009 Agreement signed with university workers.

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CONUA has also voiced its support for NAMDA's threat to embark on industrial action should the Federal Government fail to meet the union's demands, as stated in a communique endorsed by CONUA's National President, Dr Niyi Sunmonu, on Thursday.

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According to the statement, CONUA acknowledges the right of every registered trade union to pursue legitimate industrial options in defence of its members, in accordance with the Trade Union Act of 2005, as amended.

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CONUA has taken note of NAMDA's stance on the ongoing renegotiation of the 2009 FGN University-Based Unions Agreement and its readiness to consider appropriate action if the process fails to yield satisfactory outcomes, with the union standing in solidarity with NAMDA's call for a timely conclusion of the renegotiation process.

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While the proposed Joint Action Front, JAF, is still being formalised, CONUA urges the Chairman of the Renegotiation Committee, Alhaji Yayale Ahmed, to conclude the assignment without further delay and invite all unions to sign their respective agreements.

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CONUA expresses confidence that the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, will sustain his commitment to fairness and inclusiveness in the negotiation process.

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However, CONUA is deeply concerned by reports of attempts by ASUU leadership to intimidate its members over the payment of the Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance, CATA, based on the false claim that CONUA members are ineligible for the payment.

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Such actions are deemed divisive, unlawful, and unacceptable by CONUA, which had already reached an understanding in principle with the Yayale Committee on the implementation of approved CATA adjustments pending the formal signing of its agreement.

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CONUA emphasizes that no member should be denied any approved benefit on account of union affiliation, and has called on all Vice-Chancellors to ensure full compliance with the Federal Ministry of Education's directive to Pro-Chancellors and Chairmen of various University Governing Council to comply and administer all approved policies fairly and without discrimination.

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CONUA reiterates its commitment to constructive engagement and industrial harmony, while maintaining that the welfare, dignity, and legitimate rights of its members are non-negotiable and will be defended through every lawful means.

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Ultimately, CONUA affirms its resolve to advance the interests of Nigerian academics and the progress of the university system, with the motto "Stronger together".