The Federal Government has begun implementing major welfare provisions contained in its renegotiated agreement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), signalling a fresh push to stabilise Nigeria’s public university system.
The move follows the signing of a revised agreement between both parties in mid-January, after months of negotiations aimed at curbing frequent industrial actions that have disrupted academic calendars nationwide.
Education Minister Tunji Alausa confirmed that the government has approved a 40 per cent increase in the Consolidated Academic Allowance (CAA) for university lecturers, with the adjustment taking effect from January 1, 2026.
According to him, several federal universities have already started paying salaries that reflect the new allowance structure, while arrangements are ongoing to ensure that all institutions adopt the increase uniformly.
“The government has met its obligation under the agreement, and we are now focused on full and consistent implementation across the system,” Alausa said, stressing that no eligible academic staff should be left out.
Furthermore, the minister disclosed that vice-chancellors of federal universities have been officially directed to integrate the revised allowance into their payroll systems and ensure that the increment is fully cascaded within their institutions.
Beyond the CAA, Alausa also drew attention to the Consolidated Tools Allowance (CATA), instructing university managements to strictly adhere to the approved framework for its disbursement.
He explained that funding for CATA has already been processed through the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission and duly provided for in the 2026 federal budget.
“The necessary approvals and statutory steps have been completed, so institutions must now ensure timely payment using available resources,” the minister said.
Alausa noted that the combined implementation of the allowance increase and tools allowance is expected to improve staff morale, enhance research output, and strengthen teaching and learning across Nigerian universities.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to honouring agreements reached with education sector stakeholders, adding that sustained dialogue and transparency remain central to achieving long-term industrial harmony and improving the quality of higher education in the country.