The End of Strikes? Nigerian Professors Secure ₦140k Monthly Top-Up in Landmark ASUU Deal

In a move described as a “decisive turning point” for Nigeria’s embattled tertiary education sector, the Federal Government has officially replaced the contentious 2009 pact with a groundbreaking new agreement. Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced on Wednesday that under this landmark deal, senior academics in the newly established “professorial cadre” will receive significant monthly salary enhancements effective January 1, 2026.

Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, Honourable Minister of Education, Federal Republic of Nigeria

The centerpiece of the agreement is a structural shift in how senior lecturers are compensated for their research and administrative burdens.

• Full Professors: Will receive a monthly top-up of over ₦140,000 (totaling approximately ₦1.74 million annually).

• Readers (Associate Professors): Are set to receive an additional ₦70,000 per month (₦840,000 annually).

The Minister clarified that these “Professorial Cadre Allowances” are reserved strictly for full-time staff, recognizing the immense scholarly and research responsibilities they bear.

Beyond Allowances: A 40% Global Salary Surge

This isn’t just a win for the top tier. The Federal Government has approved a 40% upward review of emoluments for all university teaching staff. This increase is being implemented through a new Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance (CATA), specifically designed to cover essential research costs like:

• Journal publications and book allowances.

• International conference participation.

• High-speed internet access and memberships in learned societies.

“Is this the end of university strikes? FG, ASUU sign Deal”

Is This the End of Academic Uncertainty?

For decades, the “2009 Agreement” was the flashpoint for recurring strikes that paralyzed Nigerian universities. By replacing it, the government aims to restore a predictable academic calendar and curb the “brain drain” of Nigeria’s best minds to foreign institutions.

Addressing concerns about sustainability, Dr. Alausa stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu only signed off on the deal once funding was secured. “Today we have the funding to support the 40% salary increase,” the Minister assured, noting that the payment structure—split between the Federal Government and the universities—is now transparent and well-structured.

Written by Boom RadioNG