The Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have finalized a comprehensive agreement to improve lecturers’ conditions and bring an end to the prolonged industrial disputes that have plagued Nigerian universities for over two decades.
Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa announced the 2025 Federal Government–ASUU Agreement in Abuja on Wednesday, calling it a watershed moment that restores confidence in Nigeria’s tertiary education system after years of disruptions and uncertainty.
“This represents renewed trust, restored confidence and a decisive turning point in the history of Nigeria’s tertiary education system,” Alausa stated during the unveiling ceremony.
The minister praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for directly addressing the crisis that had paralyzed universities, disrupted academic sessions and affected millions of students nationwide. He noted that the administration prioritized “dialogue over discord, reform over delay, and resolution over rhetoric.”
40% Salary Increase for Academic Staff
Central to the agreement is a 40 per cent increase in university lecturers’ salaries, approved by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) and set to commence on January 1, 2026.
The new remuneration package combines the Consolidated University Academic Staff Salary (CONUASS) with an improved Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance (CATA). The enhanced CATA will support essential academic activities including journal publications, conference attendance, internet services, professional memberships and book development.
The deal restructures nine Earned Academic Allowances with clear definitions tied to specific duties such as postgraduate supervision, fieldwork, clinical work, examinations and academic leadership positions.
Special Allowance for Professors
In an unprecedented move, the government has introduced a Professorial Cadre Allowance recognizing the responsibilities of full-time Professors and Readers. Professors will receive N1.74 million annually (N140,000 monthly), while Readers will get N840,000 per year (N70,000 monthly).
According to Alausa, this allowance aims to enhance research coordination and administrative efficiency, enabling senior academics to focus more on teaching, mentorship and innovation.
“This intervention is structural, practical and transformative,” the minister emphasized.
He attributed the breakthrough to President Tinubu’s “courageous and people-centred leadership,” noting that sustained engagement and mutual respect made it possible to resolve what many considered an unsolvable crisis.
Implementation and Future Outlook
Alausa assured Nigerians of the government’s commitment to implementing the agreement under the Renewed Hope Agenda, promising continued engagement and reforms in the education sector.
Stakeholders believe the agreement marks a new chapter of stability for Nigerian universities, bringing predictability to academic calendars and renewed optimism to students and parents.
The minister commended both negotiating teams—led by Alhaji Yayale Ahmed for the Federal Government and Professor Pius Piwuna for ASUU—alongside former ASUU President Professor Emmanuel Osodeke for establishing the foundation for this achievement.
“History will remember today as the day Nigeria chose dialogue, transparency and strong presidential commitment as the pathway to resolving long-standing governance challenges,” Alausa concluded.
With the agreement now in place, many Nigerians hope the era of extended university closures has ended, paving the way for stability, productivity and global competitiveness in the nation’s higher education sector.
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