The National President of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, Mohammed Ibrahim, has lamented the worsening economic hardship facing workers while calling for unity and a more responsive approach from the government as Muslims mark Eid-el-Fitr across the country.
In a Sallah message personally signed on Friday, Ibrahim congratulated union members, the Muslim Ummah, and Nigerians at large on the successful completion of Ramadan, describing the period as one marked by discipline, sacrifice, and devotion.
The SSANU president praised the spiritual commitment demonstrated during Ramadan, noting that the act of fasting reflects deep submission to the will of God.
He added that Eid-el-Fitr serves as a reminder of faith, obedience, and shared responsibility, particularly in times of hardship.
Ibrahim also expressed condolences to the victims of recent violence in Borno State, particularly in Maiduguri, following reported bombings.
“We mourn with the families who have lost loved ones and stand in solidarity with all who have been injured or displaced by these senseless acts of violence.
“Such incidents are painful reminders of the urgent need to secure our communities and protect innocent lives,” he noted.
Turning to national economic concerns, the labour leader highlighted the challenges faced by university workers amid rising inflation and the cost of living.
He commended SSANU members for their resilience but warned against taking their sacrifices for granted.
“Across our universities and communities, our members continue to show remarkable resilience and dedication in the face of mounting economic pressures.
“The rising cost of living has placed a heavy strain on workers and their families, with many doing more with far less while remaining committed to sustaining the institutions that shape our nation’s future,” he lamented.
He called on the Federal Government to expedite ongoing negotiations with SSANU and the Non-Academic Staff Union, stressing the need for sincerity and fairness.
“We therefore call on the Federal Government to urgently hasten the conclusion of the ongoing renegotiation process with SSANU/NASU, in a manner that reflects sincerity, fairness, and a clear recognition of the central role university workers play in national development.
“Prolonged delays only deepen uncertainty and erode confidence,” he said.
Ibrahim further urged governments at all levels to implement policies that would ease the burden on Nigerian workers.
“Policies must translate into real relief through improved welfare, wage adjustments, and economic measures that restore dignity to labour,” he stated.
He emphasised that national progress depends on how well workers are valued and supported, adding that unity remains critical to achieving stability and prosperity.
“This season calls us to strengthen the bonds that unite us.
“Beyond differences of role, region, or belief, we share a common purpose: to build a just, stable, and prosperous Nigeria,” the labour leader noted.
Encouraging members to remain hopeful and committed, Ibrahim concluded with prayers for peace and national progress.
“Better days must not only be hoped for; they must be pursued with clarity, courage, and purpose. May Almighty Allah accept our sacrifices, grant us peace, and bless our nation with stability and progress. Eid Mubarak.”
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