The federal government has announced the release of N2.3 billion to university-based unions to address the backlog of unpaid arrears.
Tunji Alausa, the minister of education, provided updates on Wednesday in Abuja regarding the government’s ongoing engagements with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and other tertiary school unions.
The minister stressed that the government is committed to tackling lingering welfare and funding challenges through “fiscal interventions, policy reforms, and sustained dialogue with the unions.”
He explained that the funds, processed through the office of the accountant-general of the federation (OAGF), are aimed at clearing arrears and enhancing the welfare of academic and non-academic staff in tertiary institutions.
“A total of N2.311 billion has been released through the office of the accountant-general of the federation to universities,” Alausa announced.
“Benefiting institutions should begin to receive payment alerts anytime from now.”
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Alausa also noted that the federal government, working with the ministry of finance and the OAGF, is finalising the release of third-party non-statutory deductions and pension remittances.
He revealed that the earned academic allowance (EAA) will be incorporated into university staff salaries starting in 2026, ensuring “prompt, predictable, and sustainable payments.”
The minister added that funds have also been disbursed under the Needs Assessment of Nigerian Universities project, with budgetary allocations in place to sustain the initiative.
Alausa highlighted that over the past 26 months, the government has cleared a significant portion of outstanding obligations while maintaining “open communication with all academic and non-academic unions of tertiary institutions.”
He reassured that discussions with ASUU and other unions are being carried out “truthfully and in good faith.”
Alausa emphasised that any agreements will be realistic and financially sustainable through the Yayale Ahmed negotiating committee.
“Our priority is to ensure that all matters are addressed responsibly and in the best interest of our education system,” he said.
“All commitments must align with approved budgetary provisions to guarantee long-term stability.”
