Federal Government (FG) and Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have reached a new understanding on the long-standing renegotiation of 2009 Memorandum of Understanding, with implementation scheduled to begin in 2026.
Gatekeepers News reports that the renewed agreement follows years of disagreements between both parties over lecturers’ welfare and funding of public universities.
ASUU’s updated demands were captured in a renegotiated framework aimed at addressing unpaid entitlements and improving conditions in the university system.
Key areas covered include the payment of withheld salaries, outstanding promotion arrears running into several years, and unresolved salary shortfalls.
The agreement also provides for the release of third-party deductions such as cooperative contributions and union check-off dues, which had remained unpaid.
ASUU also pressed for an end to the victimisation of lecturers in some universities, a concern the union said had lingered for years without proper redress.
Under the new terms, the Federal Government agreed to a salary increase and pledged improved funding for public universities.
The agreement further provides for the creation of a National Research Council to support research activities with statutory funding, as well as enhanced allocations for libraries, laboratories, and academic development.
Provisions on improved pension benefits for professors and increased university autonomy were also included.
ASUU President, Chris Piwuna, confirmed the development and said the union expects the current administration to demonstrate commitment to the agreement.
He said, “We reached an agreement with the government, and we expect this government to show a difference from previous administrations that had no fidelity to their words.”
“MoU, MoAs and several aspects of past agreements were never honoured. Our members have demonstrated patience with the ruling class.”
“They agreed to January 2026 as the commencement date of this agreement. Please do not start the new year by breaking agreements with excuses, is our advice to the Tinubu government.”
“Let us keep the system running. We have achieved stability through strategic patience. Don’t take us back in reverse gear.”
Piwuna added that further engagement with the Minister of Education is expected in the new year as part of efforts to ensure smooth implementation of the agreement.
