The Federal Government of Nigeria and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have reached a landmark agreement, ending a 16-year dispute over the 2009 FGN-ASUU deal. This pact introduces significant improvements in lecturers' welfare and university funding.
The agreement, unveiled by Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa, includes a 40 percent salary increase for academic staff effective January 1, 2026. It also establishes a new professorial cadre allowance. Professors will now get an additional ₦140,000 monthly, totaling over ₦1.7 million annually. Readers receive ₦70,000 per month under this scheme.
Furthermore, the deal grants professors 100 percent of their salary as pension upon retirement. Female lecturers gain six months of maternity leave. It clearly defines nine enhanced Earned Academic Allowances to support various academic roles.
Minister Alausa highlighted the agreement's impact. "This is a significant milestone that boosts morale and enhances Nigeria’s global competitiveness in tertiary education," he stated. ASUU leaders welcomed the changes, noting they will reduce strikes and improve stability.
This intervention by President Bola Tinubu's administration aims to motivate lecturers and attract talent to Nigerian universities.