SSANU ABU BRANCH HOLDS 3RD REGULAR CONGRESS AS FOUR MONTHS OF CONTTA ARREARS ARE PAID DURING PROCEEDINGS

The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria Branch, held its 3rd Regular Congress under the 12th Branch Executive Committee (BEC), with discussions focusing on the implementation of the 2026 FGN/SSANU Agreement, payment of outstanding CONTTA arrears, members' welfare and other developments affecting the Nigerian university system. In a significant development, four out of the six months of outstanding CONTTA arrears were paid while the Congress was still in session. The development marked an important step towards fulfilling the financial obligations arising from the implementation of the 2026 FGN/SSANU Agreement, leaving two months of arrears outstanding. The payment came at a particularly significant moment, as the implementation of CONTTA and settlement of outstanding arrears were among the major issues scheduled for deliberation at the Congress. In recognition of the progress recorded, members of the Congress commended the National President of SSANU, Comrade M. H. Ibrahim, fnipr, for his doggedness, unwavering commitment, personal sacrifices and exemplary leadership in championing the negotiations that culminated in the signing of the historic 2026 FGN/SSANU Agreement, as well as his sustained efforts towards ensuring its implementation and the payment of outstanding arrears. Members particularly acknowledged the determination and resilience demonstrated by the National President in advancing the welfare and legitimate interests of SSANU members, despite the numerous challenges associated with negotiations and the implementation process. The Congress further encouraged the National President not to relent in his efforts to defend the rights, dignity and welfare of SSANU members across the country, while continuing to lend his voice to broader national issues affecting Nigerian workers, public education and the wellbeing of the nation at large. Members reaffirmed their confidence in his leadership and expressed their continued solidarity and support for the National leadership in its pursuit of the full implementation of the agreement and the settlement of all outstanding entitlements. The Congress also featured a report from the 56th Regular National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting, highlighting critical national issues, including the implementation of the agreement, outstanding financial entitlements and the Union's concerns regarding the introduction of virtual accreditation exercises by the National Universities Commission (NUC). Other matters on the agenda included issues relating to the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), alongside other welfare concerns affecting members. The gathering further provided an opportunity for members to review matters arising from the previous Congress and engage with the Branch leadership on developments affecting their collective interests. The payment of four months' CONTTA arrears represents welcome progress in the ongoing efforts to secure the full implementation of the agreement. However, the outstanding two months remain an important issue requiring further attention. The SSANU ABU Branch remains committed to the protection of members' rights, improved welfare, transparency and sustained engagement with relevant authorities towards ensuring that all outstanding entitlements are fully settled. SSANU ABU Branch: United in Solidarity, Committed to Members' Welfare. Solidarity Forever!