Kaduna, Nigeria – The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Kaduna Polytechnic Chapter, held a press briefing today to address pressing issues affecting polytechnics and to outline specific challenges faced by their institution. The briefing was led by Engr. Abubakar J. Abdullahi, Chairman of the Kaduna Polytechnic Chapter, who emphasized the need for immediate action from the Federal Government.
During the briefing, Abdullahi highlighted several key concerns that have arisen following the resolutions passed at the ASUP National Executive Council meeting held in Abuja on August 14, 2025. Among the issues raised were:
1. Peculiar Academic Allowance (PAA): The National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) has yet to release a crucial circular, jeopardizing the continuation of this allowance, which is a part of the ASUP/FGN 2010 agreement.
2. Arrears of Salary Review: Despite budget allocations, the Federal Government has not released funds for the 25/35% salary review, leaving many state institutions, including those in Kaduna, without implementation.
3. Discrimination Against HND Holders: The ongoing delay in approving the dual mandate policy is seen as a reinforcement of discrimination against Higher National Diploma (HND) holders, undermining the value of polytechnic graduates.
4. NEEDS Assessment Intervention: The second phase of this intervention has been indefinitely delayed, directly impacting the infrastructure and teaching facilities at Kaduna Polytechnic.
5. Promotion Arrears: Many staff members are owed promotion arrears dating back several years, with irregular implementation of promotions leading to dissatisfaction.
6. Renegotiation of the 2010 Agreement: The Federal Government has failed to reconstitute the necessary committee to renegotiate the long-overdue ASUP/FGN 2010 agreement.
7. HND/BSc Dichotomy: Despite various bills passed by the National Assembly, discrimination against HND holders continues, adversely affecting their career prospects.
8. Creation of National Polytechnic Commission (NPC): Abdullahi stressed the urgent need for a National Polytechnic Commission to enhance the performance and advancement of the Polytechnic System.
9. NHF Deductions: There have been issues concerning the non-remittance of National Housing Fund (NHF) deductions from members’ salaries during the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS) era.
In addition to these national issues, local concerns were also raised, including delays in promotion matters, the need for improved welfare conditions, infrastructural development, and the provision of necessary office furniture and accommodations for staff.
In a decisive move, ASUP, Kaduna Polytechnic Chapter, has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Federal Government and the institution’s management to address these concerns. Abdullahi warned that failure to act would result in a nationwide industrial action, including a total withdrawal of services by union members.
The press briefing concluded with a call for unity among members and a commitment to advocating for their rights and welfare.
