The Benue State Government and the leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Tertiary Institutions of Benue State (ASUTIBS), the umbrella body representing academic staff of polytechnics and colleges of education in the state, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the implementation of the approved 25/35 salary structure for academic staff.
Under the terms of the agreement, the State Government has committed to the full implementation of the new salary structure, including the payment of outstanding arrears owed to affected lecturers.
The MOU was signed on behalf of the State Government by the Acting Head of Service, Dr. Ihu, alongside the Commissioners for Finance and Education. The union was represented by its Chairman, Dr. Ate Agera, and Secretary, Dr. Doochen Imotyoo.
The Acting Head of Service and the ASUTIBS Chairman separately commended the cordial relationship between the State Government and organised labour. They appealed to the union to bring the industrial action to an end as soon as possible to enable academic activities resume across the affected institutions.
Both parties expressed appreciation to the Executive Governor of Benue State, His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, for the proactive steps taken to resolve the impasse and urged all stakeholders to remain committed to the full implementation of the agreement.
Dr. Agera also commended the Governor for what he described as his prompt attention to issues concerning the welfare of academic staff. He assured the Governor of the union’s continued support, including support for his re-election bid, as demonstrated during the last election.
The ASUTIBS Chairman further expressed appreciation to the Government’s negotiating team for its commitment and constructive engagement throughout the discussions.
He assured the State Government that he would meet with the union’s congress as soon as possible to deliberate on the agreement, with a view to calling off the strike.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining constructive dialogue and industrial harmony in the interest of the academic community and the overall development of the state’s tertiary education sector.
Hon. Chief Solomon Iorpev
Honourable Commissioner, Information and Orientation, Benue State.
