UNICROSS Strike: NIPR Intervenes, Urges Fresh Talk

CROSS RIVER, CALABAR – The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Cross River State Chapter, has intervened in the prolonged industrial action at the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), urging the Cross River State Government and the university unions to return to the negotiation table to resolve the impasse.

The Institute warned that the continued closure of the university has disrupted academic activities and placed emotional, academic and financial burdens on thousands of students, parents, guardians and the wider society.

In its monthly public relations statement signed by the State Chairman, Pastor Austin Godwin Mboso, the professional body stressed that sincere communication, mutual respect and a genuine willingness to reach consensus remain the most effective path to resolving institutional conflicts.

“Every additional day of inactivity places an emotional, academic, and financial burden on students, parents, guardians, and the wider society,” the statement said.

While acknowledging the legitimate right of university workers to advocate for improved welfare and better working conditions, the Institute urged all parties to consider the wider consequences of a prolonged strike on the state’s education sector.

The NIPR said lasting solutions could only be achieved through dialogue and compromise, calling on both the government and labour unions to demonstrate flexibility, empathy and a shared commitment to restoring normal academic activities.

As an organisation committed to promoting mutual understanding and peaceful conflict resolution, the Institute appealed to both sides to resume negotiations in the interest of students and the future of the state.

The statement expressed optimism that responsible leadership and renewed goodwill would pave the way for an amicable settlement, enabling students to return to classrooms without further delay.

The intervention comes amid continued uncertainty over the duration of the industrial action, with academic activities at the state-owned university remaining at a standstill as stakeholders await a breakthrough in negotiations.