Amanze Chinonye
The Federal Government has formally concluded a landmark agreement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), ending more than 16 years of negotiations over the 2009 FGN–ASUU Agreement.
The new deal, finalized on December 23, 2025, will take effect from January 1, 2026, and is scheduled for review after three years, Prime Business Africa reports.
The agreement delivers a 40 percent salary increase for academic staff across Nigeria and introduces improved pension benefits. Professors retiring at age 70 will now receive pensions equivalent to their annual salary.
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In a major boost for tertiary education, the agreement also includes a revamped university funding model, with dedicated allocations for research, libraries, laboratories, equipment, and staff development. A National Research Council (NRC) is proposed to fund research initiatives, targeting at least 1 percent of Nigeria’s GDP.
Academic freedom and university autonomy have been strengthened. Leadership positions, including Deans and Provosts, will now be elected, with eligibility restricted to professors. The deal also includes a non‑victimisation clause, protecting all staff involved in past industrial actions or negotiations.
ASUU leadership has called on the government to implement the agreement without delay and urged that negotiations be extended to other university unions to ensure stability across the higher education system.
According to Prime Business Africa, The agreement marks a significant step toward revitalizing Nigeria’s universities, restoring confidence in the nation’s academic institutions, and addressing long-standing concerns about staff welfare and funding in federal universities.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
