FG Releases ₦50 Billion to Settle ASUU, University Staff Allowances

The Federal Government of Nigeria has released ₦50 billion to clear outstanding earned allowances for academic and non-academic staff across federal universities. This significant financial intervention, announced on Wednesday by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, represents a major step in meeting the long-standing demands of university workers and boosting morale in the education sector.

The funds, which cover obligations to members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and other university unions, are expected to ease financial burdens and restore industrial harmony across campuses. The disbursement was confirmed in a statement by Boriowo Folasade, the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Education.

According to the ministry, this move highlights President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s education system and reaffirming the value placed on lecturers and support staff who are instrumental in shaping the nation’s future.

Dr. Alausa emphasized that the release of the funds goes beyond settling arrears. It reflects the government’s confidence in Nigerian university staff and their vital role in national development. He added that the initiative aligns with broader reforms aimed at repositioning the higher education sector.

The ₦50 billion release addresses issues dating back to the 2009 agreement between the Federal Government and ASUU, which has remained a major source of contention over the years. Prolonged negotiations on allowances, university funding, and salary arrears have previously led to strikes that disrupted academic calendars nationwide.

Although ASUU has yet to comment officially, the union has consistently called for timely and transparent payments. It has also urged the inclusion of earned allowances in federal budgets to ensure consistency and prevent further delays.

Reactions from education professionals have been largely positive. Dr. Amina Yusuf, a lecturer at the University of Lagos, praised the development. “This is long-awaited relief. Many of us have worked for years without receiving what we’re owed. We hope this marks a turning point for sustained support in education,” she said.

Looking ahead, the government plans to shift responsibility for allowance payments to individual university governing councils, a move that may encourage institutional accountability and financial independence. However, its success will depend on how well universities manage the process.

Despite current economic pressures, this allocation underscores the Tinubu administration’s resolve to prioritize education. The government has urged lecturers and university staff to reciprocate this gesture with renewed dedication to academic excellence and research, helping to position Nigeria as a global hub for innovation and knowledge.