ASUU Threatens Fresh Action Against FG Over Unpaid Salaries
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a stern warning to the federal government, stating that it will take action if lecturers' salaries are not fully implemented in line with the 2025 agreement by the end of March. The union's president, Christopher Piwuna, emphasized that full payment of salaries, including all agreed allowances, is expected by the month end.
ASUU members have been growing increasingly weary of delays in the payment of their salaries, with some categories of lecturers, such as those on sabbatical and visiting appointments, being affected due to funding constraints in host institutions. The union has also expressed concerns over the incomplete implementation of the agreement, with critical elements such as the Earned Academic Allowances (EAA) yet to be fully paid.
Christopher Piwuna clarified that the union's warning is not a four-day ultimatum, but rather a reasonable timeline for compliance on the issue. He noted that ASUU follows laid-down procedures before embarking on any industrial action. The union is insisting on full compliance with the agreement reached with the government in December 2025, which includes a 40 per cent increase in allowances, improved salary structure, and enhanced welfare provisions for academic staff.
The absence of a clear and timely budget framework has made it difficult for universities to access funds, thereby complicating salary payments and implementation of agreed benefits. The 2025 agreement also contains provisions for the establishment of a national research council, improved funding benchmarks for education, and a N30 billion stabilisation fund to be disbursed over three years to address financial shortfalls in universities.
