In a move aimed at improving Nigeria’s university system, the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have signed a new agreement, replacing the long-standing 2009 pact that was repeatedly marred by industrial disputes.
The ceremony, held at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Conference Hall on Wednesday in Maitama, Abuja, brought together key stakeholders, including the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Ahmad, and the Minister of Labour and Employment, Mohammed Dingyadi.
Speaking at the unveiling, ASUU President Professor Chris Piwuna acknowledged the turbulent history of negotiations between the union and successive governments but expressed cautious optimism.
“We are hopeful that this time, the government will fully implement the agreement.
“While past experiences make us wary, we trust that Minister Alausa’s openness and accessibility will ensure a different outcome.
”Our union is committed to constructive engagement without the need to issue strike threats, ” he said.
“This is a historic moment that signals a new era for Nigeria’s higher education.
“We hope it ushers in lasting peace and quality education for all, ” Piwuna added.,
On his part, Minister Alausa highlighted major components of the agreement, notably a 40 per cent increase in academic staff emoluments to enhance morale, service delivery, and global competitiveness.
The revised pay structure incorporates the Consolidated Research and Allied Institutions Salary Structure (CONRAISS) and a consolidated academic tools allowance.
In a first for Nigerian universities, the agreement also introduces “professorial cadre allowances,” applying exclusively to full-time professors and readers, recognizing their workload and scholarly responsibilities.
“This acknowledges the significant administrative, research, and academic contributions of our senior faculty,” Alausa explained.
Alausa described the agreement as a decisive turning point for Nigeria’s tertiary education system.
He credited the success to President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to quality education and uninterrupted academic calendars for students nationwide.
“This is more than just a document; it symbolises restored trust, renewed confidence, and a clear demonstration of the government’s dedication to academic excellence,” Alausa said.
Also, Minister Dingyadi emphasised that the success of the agreement hinges on sincere and transparent implementation by both parties.
“Timely execution of this agreement will not only foster lasting industrial peace but also restore confidence among students, parents, and the public.
“Agreements gain true meaning not at signing, but through consistent, honest execution, ” he said.
Senator Muntari Dandutse, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund, described the pact as a milestone in Nigeria’s educational development.
“This is not merely a signing; it is a strategic step towards securing a promising future for our universities and the nation,” he said.
Both the government and ASUU expressed a commitment to ensure the pact benefits students, staff, and the nation.
The agreement is expected to reverse brain drain, improve institutional performance, and stabilize industrial relations within universities.
