The Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have signed a new agreement to improve the quality of university education and ensure stability in tertiary institutions. The pact replaces the 2009 agreement, which had triggered repeated strikes over unresolved issues.
The signing took place on Wednesday at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Conference Hall in Maitama, Abuja, with dignitaries including the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad.
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Speaking at the event, ASUU President Prof. Chris Piwuna expressed cautious optimism, saying the union hopes the agreement will be implemented without strike threats. “We are optimistic that the government will implement this agreement in totality, but pessimism still exists because of our history,” he said.
Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa described the agreement as a “decisive turning point” for Nigeria’s tertiary education system, highlighting a 40% increase in academic staff emoluments through the Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance. The agreement also introduces “professorial cadre allowances” for full-time professors and institutional leaders, recognizing their administrative and research responsibilities.
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Minister of Labour and Employment Mohammed Dingyadi stressed that sincere and timely implementation will foster industrial peace and restore public confidence. Senator Muntari Dandutse, chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund, called the agreement a “significant milestone” for sustainable development and the nation’s academic future.
The pact marks a new chapter in government-ASUU relations, aiming to prevent prolonged disruptions and enhance the standard of tertiary education across Nigeria.
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