After years of protracted disputes and industrial actions, a landmark resolution has been reached between the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). The two parties have successfully concluded the long-awaited renegotiation of the contentious 2009 agreement, bringing hope for sustained peace in the nation's public university system.
Key Highlights of the New Agreement
The union confirmed in an official statement on Wednesday, December 25, 2025, that the new deal was finalized on December 23. This breakthrough follows prolonged negotiations that have often been marred by stalemates and strikes. The renegotiated agreement is scheduled to take full effect from January 1, 2026, and includes a provision for a review every three years.
The centrepiece of the agreement is a significant enhancement of lecturer welfare. Academic staff across federal and state universities are set to receive a 40% salary increase. Furthermore, pension benefits have been substantially improved. Under the new arrangement, a professor retiring at the age of 70 will be entitled to retirement benefits equivalent to their full annual salary.
New Funding Framework and University Autonomy
Beyond staff welfare, the agreement introduces a transformative funding framework for public universities. Dedicated allocations will now be channeled into critical areas that have suffered chronic underfunding. These include:
- Research and development
- Library upgrades and subscriptions
- Laboratory equipment and maintenance
- Continuous staff development programmes
A major proposal within the framework is the establishment of a National Research Council to coordinate and bolster research activities in Nigerian universities. Funding for research is expected to be pegged at a minimum of one percent of Nigeria's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The pact also strengthens university autonomy and academic freedom. It mandates that key academic leadership positions, such as Deans and Provosts, must be elected and their eligibility restricted to professors. In a significant move to heal past wounds, the agreement provides assurances that no academic staff member will face victimisation for participating in previous industrial actions undertaken by the union.
ASUU's Call for Implementation and Wider Engagement
While celebrating the resolution, ASUU has issued a firm call to the Federal Government. The union stresses the need for prompt and faithful implementation of the agreement, warning that any delays could erode trust and destabilize the university system once again.
ASUU also urged the government to extend similar negotiation exercises to other university-based unions. The union believes that inclusive engagement with all stakeholders is crucial for achieving lasting peace and stability in Nigeria's tertiary education sector.
This resolution comes after ASUU had earlier issued a stern warning, threatening to resume a nationwide strike if its demands were not met before the expiration of a one-month ultimatum. The successful conclusion of talks has, for now, averted that potential disruption, offering a fresh start for the academic calendar and the pursuit of academic excellence in Nigeria.
