Education Minister, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has announced that the Federal Government has released N2.3 billion, covering Batch 8 salary and promotion arrears for public universities nationwide. The allocation will clear backlogs owed to both academic and non-academic university workers.
Alausa explained that the payment, processed through the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF), reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to offset inherited debts and improve the welfare of university staff.
In a statement issued yesterday in Abuja by the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Folasade Boriowo, the minister said:
“A total of N2.311 billion, representing Batch 8 salary and promotion arrears, has been released through the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation to universities. Beneficiary institutions should begin to receive payment alerts anytime from now.”
Alausa further stated that the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Finance and the OAGF, is finalising the release of third-party non-statutory deductions and pension remittances to the Nigerian University Pension Management Company (NUPEMCO), which is expected to be completed shortly.
Government moves to mainstream allowances
The minister noted that the government has approved the full integration of the Earned Academic Allowance (EAA) into university workers’ salaries, beginning next year.
He added that the reform would ensure regular and sustainable payments going forward. According to him, funding has also been disbursed under the Needs Assessment of Nigerian Universities initiative, with budgetary provisions made for its continuation.
Alausa said these interventions highlight the government’s strong commitment to staff welfare and to resolving long-standing issues within the education sector.
“Within the last 26 months, the Federal Government has paid a significant portion of outstanding obligations while maintaining open communication with all academic and non-academic unions of tertiary institutions.
“The Federal Ministry of Education assures that these engagements are being conducted truthfully and in good faith. However, while the government remains committed to improving workers’ welfare, it will only enter into agreements that are realistic and financially sustainable,” he said.
The minister explained that the Yayale Ahmed Negotiating Committee continues to act as a bridge between the Federal Government and tertiary institution unions, ensuring that all pending welfare matters are resolved through fair and transparent dialogue.
“Negotiations are being conducted sincerely, mutually, and respectfully.
“Our priority is to ensure that all matters are addressed responsibly and in the best interest of our education system,” Alausa said.
He emphasised that all government obligations must align with approved budgetary frameworks to sustain long-term financial stability.
Alausa commended President Tinubu for his strong dedication to education, noting that several long-standing challenges were being addressed under his administration.
He expressed optimism that the ongoing reforms and fiscal measures would foster lasting industrial peace, rebuild trust in the university system, and enhance institutional capacity for national development.
