The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of Academic and Non-Academic Staff Unions in Bauchi State tertiary institutions has issued a 21-day ultimatum to Bauchi State Government over non-implementation of the 70,000 minimum wage and pension act.
WikkiTimes reports that all states in the northeast with exception of Bauchi have made commitment to implementing the minimum wage.
Addressing a press conference at the NUJ Secretariat in Bauchi, JAC Chairman, Comrade Abubakar Ahmed, said the ultimatum to the state government was to allow it to address the matter or face industrial action.
He lamented the plight of workers whose dedication to shaping the future generation has been met with what he termed “inadequate compensation.”
He noted that failure to implement the minimum wage as mandated by the Minimum wage law has left many staff members in financial distress, a situation that threatens not only their well-being but also the quality of education in the state.
“The consequences of neglecting this issue go beyond individual suffering,” Engr. Ahmed stated. “Underpaid workers cannot perform at their best, and this affects the educational environment and society at large. A motivated teacher fosters critical thinking and safe learning spaces, but how can this happen when the teacher is worried about meeting basic needs?”
Comrade Ahmad demanded the immediate implementation of the Consolidated Polytechnic and Colleges of Education Salary Structure (CONPCASS) and Consolidated Tertiary Institutions Salary Structure (CONTEDISS).
Failure to act, they warn, will compel them to commence industrial action, potentially disrupting the academic calendar in Bauchi State.
Calling on the state government to act decisively, the Chairman stressed the urgency of the situation. “Our members work tirelessly to educate and inspire, yet their voices remain unheard. It’s time to confront this systematic failure and uphold the rights and welfare of those who dedicate their lives to building our future.”
