By Sahel Reporters, Abuja
The Federal Government has released ₦2.3 billion to federal universities to clear outstanding salary and promotion arrears, reaffirming its commitment to continuous dialogue with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, disclosed this while briefing journalists on ongoing engagements with ASUU and other university-based unions.
According to him, the disbursement—processed through the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF)—demonstrates President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s determination to address lingering welfare and funding challenges in the tertiary education sector.
“A total of ₦2.311 billion, representing Batch 8 of salary and promotion arrears, has been released to universities. Benefiting institutions should begin to receive alerts soon,” Alausa said.
He also noted that the government is finalizing the release of third-party non-statutory deductions and pension remittances to NUPEMCO, which will be completed in the coming days.
The Minister further announced that the Earned Academic Allowance (EAA) will be fully integrated into university staff salaries starting in 2026, ensuring regular and sustainable payments.
Alausa added that funding under the Needs Assessment of Nigerian Universities has also been sustained through budgetary provisions.
Reaffirming the government’s good faith in ongoing negotiations, the Minister said:
“While the government remains committed to improving staff welfare, agreements entered into must be realistic and financially sustainable.”
He commended the Yayale Ahmed Negotiating Committee for maintaining constructive engagement between the government and university unions, emphasizing that all discussions are being handled sincerely and responsibly in the interest of Nigeria’s education system.
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