The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is inching toward accepting a 40% salary increase, marking one of the most significant shifts in federal-university wage negotiations in more than a decade. The breakthrough—documented in an internal NEC memo—indicates the union may no longer reject the Federal Government’s terms after years of stalled bargaining and deepening frustration.
According to ASUU President Chris Piwuna, the union believes continued rejection would leave lecturers “stagnated financially for a protracted period,” given the government’s refusal to shift further.
ASUU 40% Salary Increase Deal: Why NEC Is Finally Backing Down
The proposed deal includes:
- 40% general salary uplift for academic staff
- Earned Academic Allowances capped at 12% of each university’s annual academic salaries
- Three-year review cycle for the agreement
- Full adherence to university autonomy laws
- A strict non-victimisation clause protecting union members
Representatives from all branches are expected to brief their members before ASUU sends a formal acceptance letter to the Federal Government.
Wage Stagnation × University Autonomy × Strike Avoidance
ASUU’s one-month ultimatum expired last week, creating nationwide fear of a fresh shutdown of universities. The union had complained of the government’s “nonchalant” attitude, unpaid allowances, stalled revitalisation funding and neglect of the 2009 agreement review.
But the mood has shifted.
A senior NEC member, speaking anonymously due to negotiation restrictions, told IDNN:
“We pushed as far as we could. This 40% structure—slightly above and slightly below Nimi Briggs in some cadres—is the only realistic midpoint.”
The Education Minister, Dr. Tunji Alausa, insists the government has met “virtually all ASUU’s demands” and says President Tinubu is determined to prevent another strike.
What Happens Next for Universities?
Once branches endorse the NEC position, ASUU will sign a new agreement—potentially ending years of wage stagnation and signalling a new phase for university financing.
But experts warn the deal must be backed by budget discipline, sustained revitalisation and accountability to prevent another cycle of crisis.
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