The Nigerian government has initiated steps to resolve grievances raised by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), following the union’s recent threat of renewed industrial action.
Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, confirmed the government’s actions, announcing the release of ₦2.3 billion dedicated to settling the ‘Batch 8 salary and promotion arrears’ owed to universities across the country.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Education spokesperson, Folasade Boriowo, the Minister disclosed that the disbursements have been processed through the Accountant-General of the Federation’s (OAGF) office, and payments should reach the institutions shortly.
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ASUU recently issued a two-week warning strike, which it suspended after ten days following what it termed “fruitful engagement” with federal representatives.
The union’s core demands included concluding the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement, the payment of three-and-a-half months of withheld salaries, sustained funding for public universities, and the revitalization of the institutions.
In further concessions, the Ministry of Education statement noted that the government is finalizing the release of third-party non-statutory deductions and pension remittances to the Nigerian University Pension Management (NUPEMCO), which is expected to be completed in the coming days.
Alausa also revealed a significant policy approval: the full mainstreaming of the Earned Academic Allowance (EAA) into university staff salaries beginning in 2026.
This move is intended to ensure these payments become predictable and sustainable.
He added that funds have already been disbursed under the Needs Assessment of Nigerian Universities program, with necessary budgetary provisions made to sustain this funding mechanism.
Alausa emphasized the government’s commitment to revitalizing tertiary institutions through decisive financial interventions, policy shifts, and continuous dialogue with ASUU and other university-based unions.
He confirmed that the Yayale Ahmed negotiation committee will continue engaging the unions to address all outstanding welfare issues through “honest and mutually respectful dialogue.”
The Minister stressed that while the government is prioritizing the responsible resolution of all matters, all financial commitments must align with approved budgetary provisions to guarantee long-term stability for the education system.
