The Federal Government of Nigeria released ₦50 billion on April 22, 2025, to clear outstanding earned allowances for the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and other tertiary institution unions, marking a significant step toward resolving long-standing disputes.
The funds, announced by the Minister of Education, Dr. Mohruf Alausa, cover allowances for lecturers, non-academic staff, and polytechnic and college of education unions, addressing grievances dating back to 2019.
ASUU’s National President, Emmanuel Osodeke, confirmed the disbursement, noting that the funds would cover Earned Academic Allowances (EAA) for teaching staff and Earned Allowances (EA) for non-teaching staff, with universities expected to receive allocations by May.
The release follows months of negotiations, averting a planned strike by ASUU, which had accused the government of neglecting agreements. Alausa credited President Tinubu’s intervention, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to revitalizing education.
The funds are part of a broader ₦200 billion revitalization package for public universities, with ₦50 billion prioritized for allowances. Non-academic unions, including SSANU and NASU, also benefit, addressing years of unpaid entitlements. However, ASUU warned that unresolved issues, like the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement, could spark future tensions. University staff expressed relief, with many hoping for improved working conditions.
This financial injection aims to stabilize Nigeria’s tertiary sector, but sustainability remains a concern amid economic pressures.