FG Signs Fresh Pact with ASUU

The federal government of Nigeria and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have struck a fresh agreement following weeks of negotiation and discussion about the 2009 accord.

The new agreement was signed on Wednesday at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Conference Hall in Maitama, Abuja.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by top government officials and other dignitaries, including the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, as well as ASUU President, Prof. Chris Piwuna.

The new agreement is aimed at improving the quality of the university education system and ensuring stability in the sector.

According to the Minister of Education, the signed agreement is expected to end decades of disruptions in federal universities following strikes by lecturers.

Describing the signed agreement as a turning point in the education system of the country, Alausa commended President Bola Tinubu for the political will to face the challenges in the university sector and proffer solutions.

“This is more than the unveiling of a document. It symbolises renewed trust, restored confidence, and a decisive turning point in the history of Nigeria’s tertiary education system.

“For the first time in our history, a sitting President confronted this challenge head-on and gave it the leadership attention it truly deserved,” Alausa said.

Speaking at the unveiling of the agreement, Prof. Piwuna said ASUU is optimistic that the government will abide by the signed agreements and won’t renege on the new deal.

He expressed hope that the union would not need to issue a strike threat before the Federal Government implements the agreement reached by both parties.

“We are optimistic that the government will implement this agreement in totality, but pessimism still exists because of our history.

“It is our belief that Dr. Tunji Alausa will be different, and that our union will not need to issue a strike threat before any part of this agreement is implemented. As you always say, you are open and accessible; ASUU is also open and accessible,” the ASUU president said.

A major highlight of the agreement is a 40 percent upward review of the emoluments of university academic staff, approved by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC). The new pay structure is scheduled to take effect from January 1, 2026.

Under the revised framework, academic remuneration will consist of the Consolidated University Academic Staff Salary (CONUASS) and an enhanced Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance (CATA). The strengthened CATA is designed to support journal publications, conference participation, internet access, professional memberships, and book development—key tools for global academic competitiveness and curbing brain drain.

The agreement also restructures nine Earned Academic Allowances, which are now clearly defined, transparently earned, and directly linked to duties performed. These include postgraduate supervision, fieldwork, clinical responsibilities, examinations, and academic leadership roles.

The Federal Government also approved a Professorial Cadre Allowance for full-time Professors and Readers, in recognition of their academic, administrative, and research responsibilities.

Under the scheme, Professors will receive N1.74 million annually (N140,000 monthly), while Readers will earn N840,000 annually (N70,000 monthly).