The Joint Consultative Forum (JCF) of tertiary institutions owned by the Katsina state government has expressed dissatisfaction with the government?s failure to address their concerns, particularly the implementation of the New National Minimum Wage (NNMW).

In a press statement signed by JCF Chairman Comrade Muhammad Nasir and delivered to journalists in Katsina after an emergency executive council meeting, the union acknowledged public support and concern over the journalists? plight.

However, they lamented the non-implementation of the NNMW agreement, which had been signed in the state.

The statement noted that the two-week ultimatum issued by the JCF on December 9, 2024, had expired, necessitating the emergency meeting to reassess the situation.

?During the period under review, a series of engagements and consultations were held with key stakeholders, including the Katsina State House of Assembly, Head of Service, Ministry of Higher, Vocational, and Technical Education, the Special Adviser on Labour and Productivity, and the NLC Chairman, Katsina State Council,? the statement read.

The union disclosed that these stakeholders pledged to intervene in resolving the issues but stressed the urgency of seeing tangible results.

Following extensive deliberations, the meeting resolved to await the outcome of the stakeholders? intervention and directed its 11 affiliate unions to communicate this resolution to their respective congresses, advising them to await further instructions.

The JCF raised serious concerns about the negative implications of the delayed implementation of the NNMW.

They warned of a potential brain drain, which could undermine program accreditation in the institutions. If the government fails to act promptly, department, school, and college closures are also possible.

The union called on the Katsina State Government to take swift action to ensure industrial harmony and protect the future of its tertiary education sector. (The Nation)