By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
Union membership empowers TRCN.
The Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) has officially joined the Senior Staff Association of Universities, Teaching Hospitals, Research Institutes, and Associated Institutions (SSAUTHRIAI). The inauguration ceremony of TRCN’s branch in the union took place in Abuja on Tuesday.
This integration into SSAUTHRIAI is set to bolster the TRCN’s advocacy and provide enhanced support for its members across various educational and research institutions nationwide.
At the event, SSAUTHRIAI’s sectoral Chairman, Baba Mohammed, underscored the importance of adhering to the union’s regulations and fostering constructive dialogue. Addressing the TRCN branch executives, Mohammed highlighted the necessity of inclusivity in decision-making, urging leaders to involve all members in key discussions and keep them well-informed.
He emphasized strict compliance with the union’s constitution, warning that any violations would result in disciplinary action. “Branch executives must play by the rules, ensuring they involve all members in decision-making and information dissemination. The union will discipline any officer or executive who breaches the constitution,” Mohammed stated.
Mohammed reaffirmed SSAUTHRIAI’s commitment to peaceful resolutions, advocating for dialogue and negotiation over radical unionism. “SSAUTHRIAI is a union of peace and constructive dialogue. Engage in ‘jaw, jaw,’ not ‘war, war.’ Use calm and peaceful negotiation to achieve your aims,” he said.
Ihionu Chukwuemeka, Chairman of the SSAUTHRIAI TRCN branch, addressed the various challenges facing TRCN, such as the recent removal from government funding, discontinuation of N35,000 palliatives, denial of annual increments, and failure to implement deserved promotions. Chukwuemeka expressed concern over the possibility of TRCN becoming entirely self-funded, which could increase service costs for teachers.
“For too long, we have faced challenges and injustices without a united voice. Now, we stand united for fair treatment, safe working conditions, and a fair share in the profits we help create. TRCN is facing severe challenges, including being the only regulatory body in education without government funding, cessation of palliatives, and unimplemented promotions,” Chukwuemeka said.
He called on SSAUTHRIAI, the Trade Union Congress, and the Nigerian Union of Teachers to support efforts to restore government funding for TRCN. Failure to do so, he warned, would place further financial strain on teachers already struggling with inadequate working conditions. “If TRCN remains self-funding, teachers will bear the heavy burden with increased service costs, despite already battling poor conditions,” he added.
Josiah Ajiboye, Registrar of TRCN, emphasized the importance of maintaining the union’s reputation. Represented by Stella Nwokeocha, Director of Human Resources Management, Ajiboye urged TRCN leaders to focus on building and maintaining members’ trust. “Do your best to uphold the union’s reputation. Avoid actions that could damage trust among members,” Ajiboye advised.
Union, Funding.
Union membership empowers TRCN