In a major step towards strengthening Nigeria’s tertiary education sector, the Federal Government has released ₦50 billion for the payment of Earned Academic and Non-Academic Allowances to staff in federal universities. The move follows through on a pledge made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and aims to foster stability and improve staff welfare in the country’s higher institutions.
The announcement was made on Wednesday in Abuja by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, who described the disbursement not merely as a financial obligation but a powerful statement of the administration’s faith in the future of Nigerian youth and the critical role played by educators.
The payment addresses long-standing demands by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and other staff unions regarding entitlements rooted in the 2009 FGN-ASUU Agreement—a pact that has seen intermittent implementation over the years.
According to a statement issued by Boriowo Folasade, spokesperson for the Ministry of Education, Dr. Alausa emphasized that the release of the funds reflects a renewed dedication to educational development and stability in federal institutions.
“By prioritising their welfare, we are laying the foundation for a future where every Nigerian child receives highly qualitative and globally competitive education,” the Minister said.
He added that the gesture serves to reinforce trust and foster peace within the university community, especially in light of the country currently enjoying one of its longest uninterrupted academic sessions in recent history—a milestone largely attributed to improved dialogue between government and academic unions.
President Tinubu, in a message conveyed by the Minister, restated his unwavering commitment to youth development through education.
“The youth are the heartbeat of our country. Their future is extremely important to me and my administration. Keeping our children in school is not negotiable. It is my commitment that strikes in our institutions will soon become a thing of the past forever,” the President affirmed.
The Federal Government has also reiterated its strategy to decentralize the payment of future earned allowances by placing the responsibility on university governing councils, a move expected to enhance autonomy and accountability in managing institutional finances.
The Ministry pledged continued engagement with all stakeholders across the education ecosystem to ensure Nigerian students have access to world-class education, aligning with the aspirations of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This announcement marks a significant step in the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda and reinforces the Federal Government’s determination to make the Nigerian education sector a shining model for Africa and the world,” the statement concluded.
As Nigeria moves to strengthen the educational infrastructure, this financial intervention signals a turning point in the ongoing efforts to transform the university system, protect academic calendars, and invest in the next generation of Nigerian leaders.
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