By Paul Joseph
The Federal Government has begun to implement the 40 percent salary increase that was agreed upon with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and has instructed all federal universities to adhere to this decision across the country.
This announcement was made in a statement on Monday by Boriowo Folasade, the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education.
The statement emphasized President Bola Tinubu’s dedication to upholding agreements made with educational stakeholders and ensuring industrial harmony in public universities.
Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa confirmed that the 40 percent increase in the Consolidated Academic Allowance for ASUU members is effective from January 1, 2026.
The ministry noted that some federal universities have already adjusted their salary payments to reflect this increase, while others are being instructed to do so promptly.
All federal universities have been officially informed to incorporate this increase into their payroll systems to guarantee that eligible academic staff receive the full benefits.
Alausa also directed vice chancellors to adhere strictly to the approved framework for implementing the Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance.
He urged university administrations to manage their funds wisely to ensure timely payment of the allowance.
The minister explained that the payment has been processed and disseminated by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, and its inclusion in the 2026 budget has followed the proper procedures.
He added that timely payment of both the allowance increase and the tools allowance would enhance staff morale, strengthen teaching and research, and improve educational outcomes in Nigerian universities.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to fulfilling agreements with ASUU and other educational stakeholders through dialogue, transparency, and ongoing engagement.
Last month, the government and ASUU finalized a renegotiated agreement aimed at resolving long-standing issues within the university system.
This agreement came after years of unsuccessful renegotiation attempts that began in 2017 to review the 2009 FG-ASUU agreement.
A significant breakthrough was achieved under the current administration following the establishment of the Yayale Ahmed-led committee in October 2024.
The new agreement emphasizes better welfare, increased funding, university autonomy, academic freedom, and reforms to address brain drain and revitalize the sector.
As part of the deal, academic staff salaries will now include the Consolidated University Academic Staff Salary and a Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance, which accounts for the 40 percent increase.
The tools allowance is intended to support research, journal publications, conference attendance, internet access, professional memberships, and book purchases.
The agreement also reorganizes nine earned academic allowances, linking payments directly to specific duties.
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