The Federal Government has signed a renegotiated 2025 agreement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), a development aimed at curbing recurrent industrial actions and stabilising Nigeria’s public university system.
The agreement was unveiled in Abuja on Tuesday at a ceremony attended by government officials, labour leaders, lawmakers and representatives of the academic community.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, said the pact aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and establishes a clear framework to prevent future strikes while ensuring uninterrupted academic calendars.
A key highlight of the agreement is a 40 per cent increase in the remuneration of academic staff, approved by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission and set to take effect from January 1, 2026.
The pay rise will be implemented through the Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance, which covers research publications, conference participation, internet access, professional memberships and books.
In addition, the agreement introduces a Professorial Credit Allowance. Under this provision, professors will receive ₦1.8 million annually, while readers will earn between ₦840,000 and ₦870,000. Academic allowances have also been restructured and will now be strictly linked to duties performed.
The Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, described the agreement as a renewed commitment built on dialogue, mutual respect and shared responsibility.
ASUU leaders, labour stakeholders and lawmakers present commended the Federal Government for the peaceful resolution and stressed the need for faithful implementation.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, Mr Abel Olamuyiwa Enitan, assured that the ministry is fully committed to enforcing all provisions of the agreement.
The 2025 FG–ASUU agreement is expected to promote lasting industrial harmony and reposition Nigerian universities for greater global competitiveness.
