The Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP), Zone E, has called for the full implementation of National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) directives on the proper delineation of duties in polytechnics.
The union said the move would address the growing problem of role overlap between teaching and non-teaching staff in the polytechnic system.
SSANIP made the call during its 49th Regular Zonal Executive Council Meeting held at the Federal Polytechnic Ukana in Akwa Ibom State.
Union Raises Concern Over Role Usurpation
In a communiqué signed by Zonal Coordinator, Godwin Ikhide, and Zonal Secretary, Eni Usang, the union expressed concern over what it described as the continuous usurpation of non-teaching positions by teaching staff.
According to the council, the situation has become common in many polytechnics across the country.
The union stressed that implementing NBTE directives would restore order, improve administrative efficiency, and ensure fairness within the system.
“Council frowned at the continuous usurpation of positions and responsibilities meant for non-teaching staff in the Polytechnic sector,” the communiqué stated.
SSANIP Demands Release of 2019 Scheme of Service
The union also criticised the delay in implementing the 2019 Scheme of Service for polytechnic workers.
According to SSANIP, the prolonged delay has negatively affected workers and slowed down career progression in the sector.
The council therefore urged the Federal Government to speed up action on the implementation process.
“Council expressed reservation over the delay in the implementation of the 2019 scheme of service and called on the Federal Government to expedite action on it,” the communiqué added.
Call for Better Welfare Packages
SSANIP encouraged its branches nationwide to strengthen welfare programmes for members.
The union noted that improved welfare schemes would help workers cope with the country’s current economic challenges.
In addition, the council praised the national leadership of the association for its efforts in negotiations and engagements aimed at improving workers’ welfare.
Federal Polytechnic Ukana Commended
The union commended the management of Federal Polytechnic Ukana for its effective use of TETFund allocations.
According to SSANIP, more than 80 percent of projects in the institution were funded through TETFund support.
The council described the development as a positive example of transparency and proper project execution in the education sector.
Union Expresses Worry Over Insecurity, Fuel Prices
SSANIP also raised concerns over the rising insecurity across Nigeria and the increasing cost of petroleum products.
The union said the situation continues to place heavy pressure on workers and ordinary Nigerians.
It therefore called on the Federal Government to take urgent steps to improve security and reduce the economic burden on citizens.
“The council urged the Federal Government to take urgent steps to address the high level of insecurity and the prices of petroleum products,” the communiqué stated.
FG, Unions Still Negotiating — SSANIP Official
Speaking during the meeting, Deputy National Secretary of SSANIP, Dr Emmanuel Enyiegor, revealed that negotiations between the Federal Government and tertiary institution unions were ongoing.
He expressed optimism that both sides would soon reach agreements beneficial to workers and the government.
According to him, discussions cover salaries, allowances, schemes of service, staff development, and better working conditions.
He added that improved welfare and work environments would ultimately increase productivity in the polytechnic sector.
Longstanding Tensions in Polytechnic System
The grievances raised by SSANIP reflect longstanding tensions within Nigeria’s polytechnic system.
For years, disagreements over responsibilities, institutional recognition, and career progression have created friction between teaching and non-teaching staff.
Observers believe that implementing clear NBTE guidelines could help reduce conflicts and improve stability across the sector.
