Nasarawa Government Appeals to Striking Tertiary Institution Workers to Resume Negotiations

The Nasarawa State Government has called on striking workers at state-owned tertiary institutions to suspend their industrial action and return to the negotiating table.

Peter Ahemba, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Abdullahi Sule on Public Affairs, made the appeal on Thursday in Lafia, expressing concern over the timing of the strike as students prepare to resume classes after the holiday break.

Staff of tertiary institutions under the Joint Unions of Nasarawa State Tertiary Institutions (JUNSTI) began an indefinite strike on December 29, 2025, protesting the government’s failure to implement the new minimum wage.

“We are appealing to them to suspend the strike and allow room for further negotiations on whatever issues are in contention,” Ahemba said. “Suspending the strike will enable the state government to sit down with the unions, negotiate properly, and resolve these issues.”

Ahemba emphasized that the timing of the strike is particularly concerning as it coincides with students returning from the Christmas and New Year holidays, potentially disrupting their education.

He assured workers that the government of Governor Abdullahi Sule remains committed to their welfare and will continue to engage with the unions in good faith.

The governor’s aide also highlighted recent government investments in the education sector, including the mobilization of contractors to renovate four classroom blocks at Government Secondary School Kadarko and hostels at Government Science School Lafia. Additionally, the government has procured 1,000 mattresses for students at the College of Education Akwanga, with more projects in the pipeline.