The Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have signed a landmark agreement to comprehensively review the salaries and welfare of university academics, a move expected to bring an end to 17 years of recurring industrial disputes in Nigeria’s university system.
The agreement follows prolonged negotiations between both parties, which began in 2009 and have since been marked by periodic strikes and stalled talks.
Unveiling the deal, the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, said the new framework introduces a major overhaul of the remuneration structure for academic staff in federal tertiary institutions. The revised salary and allowance package, approved by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC), is scheduled to take effect from January 1, 2026.
A key component of the agreement is a 40 per cent upward review of the emoluments of university academics. According to the minister, the pay rise is aimed at improving staff morale, enhancing service delivery, boosting global competitiveness, and addressing the long-standing issue of brain drain in Nigerian universities.
Under the new structure, academic staff salaries will be based on the Consolidated University Academic Staff Salary (CONUASS), complemented by a newly consolidated Academic Tools Allowance (CATA). The government explained that the bulk of the 40 per cent increase will be reflected through the CATA, which is exclusive to university lecturers.
The Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance will cover essential professional expenses such as journal publications, conference participation, internet access, learned society memberships, and book allowances. These provisions, the government said, are vital to effective teaching, research, and international academic engagement.
By consolidating these benefits into a single framework, the agreement is designed to strengthen research output and improve teaching quality, rather than treating such needs as ad hoc or discretionary allowances.
The deal also includes a major restructuring of Earned Academic Allowances, with all nine categories now clearly defined, transparently earned, and directly linked to specific academic duties.
The Federal Government expressed optimism that the agreement will usher in a new era of stability in the university system and restore confidence among academic staff nationwide.
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