ASUU Deal Not Salary Increase but Allowance-Based, Says Education Minister
ASUU Deal Not Salary Increase but Allowance-Based, Says Education Minister
The Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, has clarified that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the inclusion of the Federal Government’s agreement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities in the 2026 national budget, stressing that education remains a top priority of the administration.
Ahmad disclosed this during an interview on Arise News, explaining that the President gave the go-ahead for the negotiated terms with ASUU to be captured in the budget before the agreement was finalised.
She said this followed briefings to the President on the progress of discussions with the union.
She added that the agreement covers a 40 percent allowance for academic staff, clarifying that it is not a salary increase but an academic-based allowance.
She noted that necessary calculations were carried out to ensure the allowance was properly provided for in the budget, with implementation set to take effect from January 1, 2026.
The minister added that other academic-related allowances have also been approved, including the consolidated allowance and the CARTA component, as well as professorial allowances.
She said all agreed components have been captured in the budget framework.
Ahmad stated that strong political will and commitment from the government were key to reaching the agreement, adding that the President directly engaged with the education team to determine what was required to conclude negotiations with ASUU.
