Lagos Governor Sanwo-Olu Settles N3.6 Billion Salary Arrears for Tertiary Institution Workers
Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has authorized the payment of N3.67 billion in salary arrears to workers in state-owned tertiary institutions. This payment benefits 6,293 academic and non-academic staff members across various institutions.
The decision is part of broader welfare and public service reforms designed to enhance workers' well-being and maintain industrial harmony within the state. Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Afolabi Ayantayo, announced the development on Monday, May 25, 2026.
Ayantayo explained that the arrears cover nine months of salary increments, resulting from the 25 percent and 35 percent salary increases approved for employees of Lagos State-owned tertiary institutions. He stated, "This singular act further bears eloquent testimony to the resolve of Mr Governor and his deputy in prioritising the welfare and well-being of workers."
In addition to the salary arrears, the Lagos State Government has also paid N456.5 million as a Medical Residency Training Fund to 470 resident doctors. Furthermore, salary differentials amounting to N378.8 million have been approved for medical and dental practitioners.
Governor Sanwo-Olu has also implemented a monthly pension increment of N32,000 for retirees under the Defined Benefit Scheme, in line with the National Minimum Wage Amendment Act 2024. To cushion the effects of economic hardship and rising transportation costs, the governor approved a N50,000 fuel palliative for public servants.
This move places Lagos among states paying above the N70,000 minimum wage, with Imo State emerging as the highest payer above N100,000. Several states have adopted varying wage structures, with Lagos, Rivers, and others paying above the N80,000 bracket. However, some states still lag at the N70,000 benchmark or have incomplete implementation.
Meanwhile, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has raised fresh concerns over unpaid salaries and unmet terms of the 2025 agreement, warning of possible industrial unrest. ASUU accuses the Federal Government of politicizing the agreement and delaying key implementation components, which could disrupt academic stability nationwide.
