The National Association of Agricultural Technologists (NAAT) has intensified its ongoing strike action by appealing to a broad range of stakeholders to prevail on the Federal Government to address their grievances. In a statement issued on July 12, 2024, NAAT called on the National Assembly (NASS), the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), traditional rulers (monarchs), and civil society organizations (CSOs) to intervene in the dispute.
Unpaid Salaries and Neglected Demands: The Core of the NAAT Strike
The core issue driving the strike is the alleged non-payment of salaries and arrears owed to members of NAAT, who are primarily lecturers and staff working in Colleges of Agriculture across Nigeria. The association claims that its members have not received their salaries for several months, causing significant hardship.
Beyond the immediate salary concern, NAAT’s statement highlights a broader list of unresolved demands. These include:
- The need for improved funding for Colleges of Agriculture.
- Inadequate staffing and outdated teaching facilities within these institutions.
- A call for the implementation of a long-overdue Needs Assessment Report for Colleges of Agriculture.
NAAT argues that these issues have severely hampered the quality of education offered at Colleges of Agriculture, ultimately impacting the nation’s agricultural productivity. The association emphasizes the critical role these Colleges play in training future generations of agricultural professionals and ensuring food security for Nigeria.
Widening the Net: Why NAAT Seeks Broader Support
By reaching out to NASS, NANS, monarchs, and CSOs, NAAT seeks to amplify its voice and pressure the government to take action. NASS, the legislative arm of the government, has the power to hold the executive accountable and allocate resources for education.
NANS, representing the student body, can potentially experience firsthand the disruption caused by the strike. Their support could put additional pressure on the government to resolve the issue swiftly to prevent further academic disruptions.
Traditional rulers, particularly those in agricultural communities, are seen as influential figures who can advocate for the importance of functional Colleges of Agriculture. Their voices hold weight within their communities and can influence government decisions.
Civil society organizations, known for their advocacy efforts, can provide valuable support by raising awareness about the plight of NAAT members and the broader issues affecting agricultural education in Nigeria.
By engaging a diverse range of stakeholders, NAAT aims to create a more unified front and exert greater pressure on the Federal Government to address their concerns.
The Impact of the Strike: A Stalemate with Consequences
The ongoing strike has undoubtedly impacted the academic calendar at Colleges of Agriculture across the country. Students are left without instruction, potentially causing delays in their academic progress. Additionally, the absence of staff disrupts administrative functions and essential services within these institutions.
The impact extends beyond the immediate College environment. A weakened agricultural education system could have long-term consequences for Nigeria’s agricultural sector. The country’s food security and self-sufficiency goals could be jeopardized if future generations of agricultural professionals are not adequately trained.
The current situation presents a complex challenge. NAAT members face financial hardship due to unpaid salaries, while students and the agricultural sector suffer from the consequences of the strike. Finding a swift resolution is crucial to mitigate these negative impacts.
A Call to Action: Negotiation and a Sustainable Solution
NAAT’s statement concludes with a renewed call for dialogue and negotiation with the Federal Government. Reaching a sustainable solution necessitates a commitment from both parties.
The government, on the one hand, must address the immediate issue of salary arrears and demonstrate a willingness to improve funding for Colleges of Agriculture. NAAT, on the other hand, may need to consider a phased approach to returning to work, ensuring minimal disruption to the academic calendar.
The involvement of the various stakeholders enlisted by NAAT could play a crucial role in facilitating dialogue and bridging the gap between the association and the government. Their combined efforts might pave the way for a solution that addresses both the immediate financial concerns of NAAT members and the long-term needs of the agricultural education sector.
The coming days and weeks will be crucial in determining the trajectory of the strike. The government’s response to NAAT’s pleas and the effectiveness of the association’s broader outreach efforts will be key factors in resolving the dispute and ensuring a return to normalcy for Colleges of Agriculture across Nigeria.
