The Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have finally struck a deal aimed at stabilising the tertiary education system and preventing further strikes.
The agreement, unveiled yesterday in Abuja, introduces improved welfare packages for lecturers, new academic allowances and a commitment to sustained dialogue, raising hopes of predictable academic calendars across federal universities.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, described the pact as a decisive break from decades of mistrust and policy reversals that had undermined confidence in Nigeria’s university system.
“This moment represents a clear shift from uncertainty to stability. It signals a renewed commitment to trust, confidence and long-term reform in tertiary education,” Alausa said.
He attributed the breakthrough to the direct involvement of President Bola Tinubu, whom he said prioritised engagement and consensus over prolonged confrontation.
“Rather than allow the crisis to linger, this administration chose dialogue, reform and decisive action,” the minister noted.
Salary Review, New Academic Incentives
A major feature of the agreement is a 40 per cent salary increase for academic staff, approved by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC), with effect from January 1, 2026.
Under the new arrangement, lecturers’ earnings will be paid through the Consolidated University Academic Staff Salary (CONUASS), complemented by an enhanced Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance (CATA). The allowance is designed to support research, journal publications, conference attendance, internet services, professional memberships and book development.
The agreement also overhauls nine earned academic allowances, clearly linking them to specific responsibilities such as postgraduate supervision, clinical duties, examinations, fieldwork and leadership roles.
In addition, the Federal Government approved a professorial cadre allowance for the first time in Nigeria’s university system. Full professors will earn ₦1.74 million annually (₦140,000 monthly), while readers will receive ₦840,000 annually (₦70,000 monthly).
According to Alausa, the allowance is intended to improve research coordination, academic documentation and administrative efficiency among senior academics.
“This is a structural intervention, not a symbolic gesture, assuring that the agreement would be fully implemented under the Renewed Hope Agenda,he said.
ASUU Welcomes Deal, Raises Autonomy Concerns
ASUU President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, described the agreement as a significant step toward rescuing Nigeria’s failing university system, but lamented the long delay in reaching the deal.
“This is an outcome that should have been achieved over a decade ago,” he said, noting that the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement was due in 2012.
Piwuna recounted several failed renegotiation efforts between 2017 and 2022 before progress was achieved under the committee led by Alhaji Yayale Ahmed in October 2024.
According to him, the agreement addresses conditions of service, funding, academic freedom, university autonomy and reforms aimed at reversing decay and stemming brain drain.
However, he warned that political interference in university governance remains a major concern, accusing governments of dissolving governing councils and manipulating the appointment of vice-chancellors.
“Merit is frequently sacrificed, creating legitimacy crises and instability within the system,” he said.
Piwuna also disclosed that the agreement includes provisions for enhanced research funding, including plans to forward a National Research Council Bill to the National Assembly, proposing one per cent of GDP for research and development.
Other Unions, Students Seek Inclusion, Implementation
Reacting to the agreement, the Congress of University Academics (CONUA) said while the deal was a step in the right direction, unresolved issues affecting other academic unions must be addressed.
CONUA President, Dr. Niyi Sunmonu, urged the Federal Government to conclude negotiations with all unions to guarantee lasting peace on campuses.
“The agreement was reached with one union. There are other stakeholders whose concerns must also be resolved,” he said.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) welcomed the pact, saying it could bring long-awaited academic stability, but stressed the need for immediate implementation.
“Students have paid the highest price for prolonged strikes. Delays in implementation could undermine this agreement,” said NANS spokesperson, Mr. Adeyemi Ajasa.
Similarly, the National Parent Teacher Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN) described the deal as a major achievement, urging all parties to prioritise implementation over further disputes.
Observers say the agreement could mark a turning point for Nigeria’s university system if faithfully implemented by restoring confidence, stability and academic continuity nationwide.