The Federal Government has disbursed N2.3 billion to unions in federal universities to clear a backlog of outstanding arrears.
In an update on the government’s ongoing dialogue with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and other tertiary institution unions, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced the release on Wednesday.
He reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering commitment to revitalizing the tertiary education sector through fiscal interventions, policy reforms, and sustained engagement with university-based unions.
Mr. Alausa emphasized that President Bola Tinubu is resolute in resolving all lingering welfare and funding challenges transparently and sustainably.
The funds, processed through the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF), underscore the government’s pledge to clear inherited backlogs and improve staff welfare.
“A total of ₦2.311 billion 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,” the minister stated.
He also revealed that the government, through the Ministry of Finance and the OAGF, is finalizing the release of third-party non-statutory deductions and pension remittances to NUPEMCO, expected to be completed in the coming days.
In a significant move, the Earned Academic Allowance (EAA) will be fully mainstreamed into university staff salaries starting in 2026, ensuring prompt and sustainable payments.
Furthermore, funds have been released under the Needs Assessment of Nigerian Universities project, with corresponding budgetary provisions to sustain the initiative.
Mr. Alausa assured that the government’s engagements with ASUU and other unions are being conducted truthfully and in good faith. He stressed, however, that the government would only enter into agreements that are realistic and financially sustainable.
“Our priority is to ensure that all matters are addressed responsibly and in the best interest of our education system. All commitments must align with approved budgetary provisions to guarantee long-term stability,” he said.
The minister noted that the Yayale Ahmed Negotiating Committee continues to serve as a bridge between the Federal Government and the unions, ensuring pending issues are addressed through honest dialogue.
Source: Daily Nigerian