The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved and released ₦2.3 billion to settle the long-awaited promotion arrears of university lecturers under the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
The payment, confirmed on Friday by officials of the Federal Ministry of Education, comes after months of agitation by the union, which had accused the government of neglecting agreements and failing to honor due promotions.
According to reports, the funds are to be disbursed directly to federal universities, marking a partial fulfillment of the government’s commitments under the 2019 Memorandum of Action signed with ASUU.
Union insiders described the move as “a welcome relief but long overdue,” emphasizing that many lecturers have suffered financial setbacks due to unpaid entitlements spanning several years.
The development follows ASUU’s recent 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding full payment of outstanding allowances and the implementation of improved welfare packages.
Observers say this payment could help avert another nationwide strike, but warn that lasting peace in the education sector will require the government’s consistent commitment to its promises.