The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, announced that the Federal Government released ₦2.3 billion to universities nationwide. The funds cover Batch 8 salary and promotion arrears for teaching and non-academic staff. This move shows the government’s commitment to clearing long-standing financial backlogs in public universities.
Purpose of the Funds
Dr Alausa explained that the Ministry of Finance and the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF) processed the disbursements. Universities will use the funds to clear salary backlogs and promotion arrears. Benefiting institutions should soon send payment alerts to staff. Therefore, employees can expect timely access to these pending payments.
Improving Academic Staff Welfare
The Minister highlighted that the release reflects the Bola Tinubu administration’s determination to improve staff welfare. Moreover, he noted that the government is finalizing third-party non-statutory deductions and pension remittances to the Nigerian University Pension Management. Staff will receive these payments in the coming days.
Mainstreaming the Earned Academic Allowance
Dr Alausa confirmed that the government will fully mainstream the Earned Academic Allowance into university staff salaries from 2026. This change ensures predictable and sustainable payments. Furthermore, the government released funds under the Needs Assessment of Nigerian Universities. It also included budget provisions to maintain the initiative for the long term.
Promoting Industrial Harmony
The Minister explained that the government has maintained open communication with all academic and non-academic unions for the past twenty-six months. These efforts have helped clear outstanding obligations while fostering mutual understanding. In addition, the Yayale Ahmed Negotiating Committee continues to bridge the gap between the government and tertiary institutions’ unions. This committee ensures that all pending welfare issues are resolved through respectful dialogue.
Fiscal Responsibility and Long-Term Stability
Dr Alausa emphasized that all commitments must align with approved budgetary provisions. The government will avoid unsustainable fiscal practices while addressing staff welfare concerns. He commended President Bola Tinubu for his dedication to the education sector. Several long-standing challenges are now being tackled decisively under his administration.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the release of ₦2.3 billion demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to improving Nigeria’s tertiary education system. By mainstreaming the Earned Academic Allowance, completing pension remittances, and sustaining needs-based funding, the government strengthens institutional capacity. These reforms aim to restore industrial harmony, boost confidence in the education system, and support national development.
