Union leaders call for improved workers’ welfare at NASU WAEC congress

By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin

Members of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and the West Africa Examination Council (WAEC) converged in Ilorin to deliberate on the state of insecurity, workers’ welfare and the future of unionism in Nigeria at the 46th Annual National Congress.

The program which was tagged “Unionism in the Evolving Work Landscape” brought together union leaders, WAEC management officials and delegates from across the country to review challenges facing workers and the education sector.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Congress, Comrade Kayode Ogunyade, said Nigerian workers are passing through a very difficult period, however, unity within the union remains the strongest weapon against adversity.

“We are living in difficult times marked by insecurity, economic hardship and rising cost of living, yet we have remained standing as a union because of our unity. We must not allow personal interests or sentiments to divide us. Our strength is in our togetherness,” he said.

In the same vein, the Chairman of NASU WAEC, Ilorin Branch, Comrade Sunday Ajulo, raised concerns about the state of roads within the country.

He disclosed that poor road networks and insecurity in areas such as Baruten, Patigi, Lafiagi and Kaiama posed serious risks to examination officials.

Ajulo appealed to WAEC management to provide at least two utility vehicles for the Ilorin office and called on the Kwara State Government to deploy armed personnel to high-risk centres ahead of the 2026 WASSCE.

The two-day event which held in Ilorin featured an award presentation to five veteran unionists. They were honoured with the NASU-WAEC 2026 Outstanding Union Leadership Award for their years of service and contributions to WAEC.