The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, has revealed that the Federal Government has approved and released the sum of N50 billion to academic and non-academic staff in federal universities to cover their outstanding earned allowances.
The announcement was made on Wednesday via an official statement issued by the Director of Press at the Ministry of Education, Folasade Boriowo.
According to the statement, the funds are aimed at settling long-standing obligations owed to university staff, which have been a major source of tension in the country’s higher education system.
Boriowo noted, “This move is yet another example of President Tinubu’s strong commitment to reshape Nigeria’s education sector. It shows the administration’s determination to shift the country from relying on natural resources to becoming a knowledge-based society.”
Dr. Alausa explained that this financial support is more than just a budgetary allocation. “This intervention is not just a financial transaction—it is a reaffirmation of our President’s belief in the capacity of Nigerian youth and the invaluable role that academic and non-academic staff play in nurturing them.”
He also acknowledged the efforts of university workers in maintaining peace and stability across campuses. “By prioritising their welfare, we are laying the foundation for a future where every Nigerian child receives highly qualitative and globally competitive education,” Alausa said.
The statement praised the university community for its cooperation and understanding, which has led to one of the longest periods without academic disruptions in recent years.
“Notably, the country is currently experiencing one of the longest uninterrupted academic sessions in recent history—a feat attributed to the mutual understanding and shared commitment between the government and the university community,” the statement read.
President Tinubu also expressed gratitude to the unions for their continued patience and trust. He reassured the public of his dedication to ending strikes in Nigerian universities.
“The youth are the heartbeat of our country. Their future is extremely important to me and my administration. Keeping our children in school is not negotiable. It is my commitment that strikes in our institutions will soon become a thing of the past.”
