The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the Federal Government (FG) have concluded renegotiations of the 2009 agreement, paving the way for a historic new deal set to take effect from January 1, 2026.
The agreement, announced on December 23, 2025, addresses critical issues including the welfare of university lecturers, funding for public universities, and academic freedom.
It marks the culmination of years of negotiations, delays, and industrial actions by university staff across the country.
Confirming the development, the Chairman of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) branch of ASUU, Prof. Idou Keinde, told PLATFORM TIMES: “Yes, an agreement has been reached, but I am yet to receive the full details.”
According to ASUU’s official statement, the agreement introduces a 40 per cent salary increase for academic staff and significantly enhanced pension benefits.
Under the new arrangement, professors will be entitled to pensions equivalent to their annual salary upon retirement at 70 years of age.
A new funding model for universities has also been proposed, with dedicated allocations for research, libraries, laboratories, equipment, and staff development.
Additionally, the agreement includes the establishment of a National Research Council to fund research activities with at least 1 per cent of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product.
Other notable provisions include:Strengthened university autonomy and academic freedom.
Election of academic leaders such as Deans and Provosts, limited to professors.
Assurance that no individual will face victimisation for participating in previous industrial actions.
ASUU hailed the agreement as a major victory, emphasizing that it represents a step forward in the quest for improved conditions in Nigeria’s higher education sector.
The deal is also scheduled for review every three years to ensure its relevance and sustainability..
‘
‘Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
Leave a comment