FG Releases N2.3b To Clear Salaries, Promotion Arrears For ASUU

In a bid to revitalizing Nigeria’s tertiary Education sector through decisive fiscal interventions, policy reforms, and sustained dialogue with the Academic Staff Union of Universities ASUU, the Federal Government has released ₦2.3 billion, representing Batch 8 salary and promotion arrears to universities across the country.

A Statement by the Director of Press in the Ministry of Education, Folasade Boriowo quotes the Minister of Education, Dr Olatunji Alausa, as disclosing this while providing updates on ongoing engagements with ASUU and other tertiary institution unions in Abuja.

Dr Alausa stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains resolute in his determination to resolve all lingering welfare and funding issues in a transparent, fair, and sustainable manner.

“A total of ₦2.311 billion, representing Batch 8 salary and promotion arrears, has been released through the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation to universities. Benefiting institutions should begin to receive payment alerts anytime from now”.

According to the Minister, the disbursements is processed through the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF), reflecting the Tinubu Administration’s resolve to clear inherited backlogs and enhance the welfare of academic and non-academic staff in the tertiary education sector, adding that the OAGF, is also finalising the release of third-party non-statutory deductions and pension remittances to NUPEMCO, expected to be completed in the coming days.

“Our priority is to ensure that all matters are addressed responsibly and in the best interest of our education system,” he said.

It also stresses that all commitments must align with approved budgetary provisions to guarantee long-term stability.

The Statement adds that the government has also approved the full mainstreaming of the Earned Academic Allowance (EAA) into university staff salaries beginning from 2026, noting that this will ensure prompt, predictable, and sustainable payments going forward.

He explains that in addition, funds have been released under the Needs Assessment of Nigerian Universities, with corresponding budgetary provisions made to sustain the initiative.

According to the Minister, the Yayale Ahmed Negotiating Committee continues to serve as a bridge between the Federal Government and the tertiary institutions’ unions, ensuring that all pending welfare-related issues are addressed through honest and mutually respectful dialogue.

“Negotiations are being conducted sincerely, mutually, and respectfully,” he added.

The statement commends President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering dedication to the education sector, noting that several challenges that had persisted for decades are now being tackled decisively under his administration.
and expressed optimism that the current wave of reforms and fiscal interventions will usher in lasting industrial harmony, restore confidence in Nigeria’s tertiary education system, and strengthen institutional capacity for national development.

PR/Nkiruka Okeke