The University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo State, is facing industrial unrest as the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) condemns the institution’s alleged plan to spend ₦65 million on its 10th anniversary celebration while staff welfare issues remain unresolved.

The union described the planned expenditure as “insensitive and wasteful,” citing the university’s failure to address critical staff welfare matters. These include 12 months’ arrears of remittance to Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs), 18 months’ unpaid wage awards, 105 months’ arrears of Responsibility Allowance, and non-implementation of the Employee Compensation Act.

Public Relations Officer, Isaac Oluyi, denied the allegations, describing them as “baseless and unfounded.” He clarified that the anniversary is intended to showcase the university’s achievements and attract further support for its development.

“Contrary to claims, the university is not spending ₦65 million on its anniversary. A significant portion of the funds will go towards opening a new campus where the convocation will hold,” Oluyi said. He defended Prof. Fatusi’s administration, noting efforts to improve staff welfare

SSANU has urged the university’s Governing Council to intervene and ensure that staff welfare takes precedence over what it described as “frivolous spending.”

As both parties remain at an impasse, the situation raises questions about balancing institutional milestones with staff welfare needs. Stakeholders are watching closely to see if the university will revise its anniversary budget or address the union’s demands.