FG Disburses ₦2.3bn to Clear University Salary Arrears, Mainstreams Academic Allowances from 2026
In a renewed effort to strengthen Nigeria’s higher education system, the Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to revitalising the tertiary education sector through sustained financial support, reforms, and continuous engagement with university unions.
The Minister of Education, Chief (Dr.) Maruf Olatunji Alausa, FAMedS, CON, disclosed this during a briefing on the government’s ongoing interactions with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and other tertiary institution unions.
According to Dr. Alausa, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains resolute in addressing long-standing issues surrounding staff welfare, funding, and institutional development “in a fair, transparent, and sustainable manner.”
₦2.3bn Released to Clear Salary and Promotion Arrears
Highlighting recent interventions, the Education Minister announced that the Federal Government has released ₦2.3 billion — representing Batch 8 salary and promotion arrears — to public universities across Nigeria.
The funds, disbursed through the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF), reflect the administration’s drive to clear inherited obligations and enhance the welfare of both academic and non-academic staff.
“A total of ₦2.311 billion has been disbursed, and universities will start receiving payment alerts soon,” Dr. Alausa confirmed.
He also revealed that the Ministry of Finance and the OAGF are finalising the release of third-party non-statutory deductions and pension remittances to the Nigerian University Pension Management Company (NUPEMCO) in the coming days.
Earned Academic Allowance to Be Mainstreamed from 2026
In a major policy shift, Dr. Alausa disclosed that the Federal Government has approved the mainstreaming of the Earned Academic Allowance (EAA) into university salaries beginning 2026.
He explained that this decision aims to eliminate payment delays and ensure predictable remuneration for academic staff.
Additionally, new funds have been released under the Needs Assessment of Nigerian Universities initiative, with continued budgetary support to maintain the programme.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Sustainable Reforms
Dr. Alausa stressed that these measures underscore the Tinubu administration’s dedication to resolving systemic challenges that have plagued Nigeria’s university system for decades.
“In the past 26 months, the Federal Government has cleared a significant portion of inherited obligations while maintaining open and honest dialogue with university-based unions,” he stated.
He reaffirmed that the government will only enter into financially responsible and sustainable agreements, ensuring that reforms are both practical and enduring.
The Minister also commended the Yayale Ahmed Negotiating Committee for serving as a vital link between the government and university unions, ensuring all welfare-related concerns are handled through transparent and respectful dialogue.
Building Trust and Stability in Higher Education
Dr. Alausa lauded President Tinubu’s consistent attention to the education sector, noting that longstanding problems are now being addressed with renewed focus and commitment.
He expressed optimism that the ongoing fiscal measures and structural reforms will restore industrial harmony, rebuild trust across campuses, and strengthen Nigeria’s universities for global competitiveness.
“Our goal is to promote stability, accountability, and continuous progress within Nigeria’s higher education system,” the Minister concluded.
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