ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — A Nigerian court has ordered the federal government to register a new union representing non‑teaching staff in universities, a ruling that could reshape labor relations in the country’s higher education system.
The National Industrial Court in Abuja directed the Registrar of Trade Unions, the Minister of Labour and Employment, and the Attorney General of the Federation to recognize the National Association of Non‑Teaching Staff of Nigerian Universities (NANTS). Justice Osatohanmwen Obaseki‑Osaghae ruled that the refusal to register the group was unlawful and issued a perpetual injunction restraining authorities from denying its recognition under the Trade Union Act.
The case, filed by comrade Niyi Akinnibi on behalf of the association, challenged the government’s rejection of its application. The judgment mandates the immediate issuance of a certificate of registration, granting NANTS full legal status as a trade union. The court declared that the defendants are “bound to register” the claimant and that their earlier refusal was wrongful.
Members of the new union had broken away from the Non‑Academic Staff Union of Universities, seeking independent representation. NANTS says it has established branches across federal and state universities nationwide, positioning itself as a major stakeholder in university administration and labor negotiations.
The ruling comes at a time of heightened tension in Nigeria’s education sector, where strikes and disputes over wages and working conditions have frequently disrupted academic calendars. Recognition of NANTS could add a new voice to negotiations with government and university authorities, potentially complicating or broadening collective bargaining.
Globally, the case reflects wider debates over labor rights and union recognition, particularly in sectors where workers seek autonomy from larger organizations. For Nigeria, the judgment underscores the judiciary’s role in shaping labor policy and protecting workers’ rights to organize, a principle that resonates with international labor standards and the country’s obligations under global conventions.
