The Federal Government has released N2.31 billion to federal universities to clear outstanding arrears owed to both academic and non-academic staff. The move aims to improve staff welfare and ensure timely payment of salaries and allowances across Nigeria’s higher education sector.
In a statement on Thursday, the Personal Assistant on Special Duties to the President, Kamorudeen Yusuf, quoted the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, saying that the funds were processed through the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation. Universities are expected to begin receiving payments immediately.
Commitment to staff welfare and financial sustainability
Dr. Alausa highlighted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to transparent and long-term reforms that prioritize the welfare of university staff. He noted that the administration is also working on finalizing the release of third-party deductions and pension remittances to the Nigerian University Pension Management, further strengthening financial sustainability within the sector.
“The Federal Government is ensuring that staff receive their entitlements promptly while sustaining initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency in universities,” Alausa said.
Earned Academic Allowances to be integrated by 2026
As part of ongoing reforms, the government announced that Earned Academic Allowances (EAA) will be fully integrated into university salaries by 2026. This integration is intended to ensure predictable and timely payments for academic staff, eliminating delays that have historically affected university personnel.
Additionally, funding for the Needs Assessment of Nigerian Universities project has been maintained. This project is designed to evaluate the infrastructural and operational requirements of universities nationwide, ensuring that future allocations align with actual institutional needs.
Constructive engagement with university unions
Dr. Alausa also stressed that all engagements with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and other relevant unions are conducted in good faith. He emphasized that agreements reached with staff unions remain within realistic budgetary limits to sustain stability and prevent financial strain on the education sector.
The recent disbursement comes after ASUU suspended its two-week warning strike following renewed discussions with the Federal Government. The suspension is seen as a positive development toward maintaining uninterrupted academic activities and fostering trust between university staff and the government.
Focus on long-term educational reforms
President Tinubu’s administration has consistently highlighted the importance of sustainable reforms in the education sector. By addressing arrears, streamlining pension and deduction processes, and ensuring predictable payments for allowances, the government aims to build confidence among academic and non-academic staff while supporting overall institutional growth.
Dr. Alausa reaffirmed that the government’s approach balances fiscal responsibility with staff welfare, underlining that the successful implementation of these measures would contribute to a more stable and efficient higher education system.
