The Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have reached a landmark agreement that significantly improves welfare conditions for university academics, including full salary pensions for retired professors and extended maternity leave for female lecturers.
Under the new pact, professors who retire from recognised public universities will be entitled to pension benefits equivalent to 100 per cent of their annual salary. This applies strictly to academics who served continuously in a recognised university until the mandatory retirement age, which the agreement fixes at 70 years for the professorial cadre.
The 35-page agreement, obtained by The Guardian, states in Section 3.6 that a professor who retires after uninterrupted service will receive a pension equal to his or her final annual salary—marking a major upgrade in post-service welfare for senior academics.
Stakeholders at the unveiling of the agreement in Abuja described the provision as a reward for decades of teaching, research, and administrative service. They noted that it is expected to boost morale, encourage career progression, retain experienced scholars, and curb the growing “Japa syndrome” affecting Nigeria’s university system. ASUU had earlier disclosed that 309 professors exited public universities in just one month in 2025.
The agreement also strengthens non-salary benefits. Section 3.4 provides for a six-month maternity leave for qualified female academic staff, in line with existing Public Service Rules.
Another key highlight is the introduction of a Professorial Cadre Allowance for full-time Professors and Readers. Professors will receive ₦1.74 million annually (₦140,000 monthly), while Readers will earn ₦840,000 annually (₦70,000 monthly). The allowance, which excludes part-time academics, is intended to enhance research coordination, academic documentation, and administrative efficiency.
Presenting the renegotiated agreement, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, described it as a historic turning point that restores trust, strengthens industrial harmony, and signals a firm commitment to uninterrupted academic calendars.
He said the agreement reflects President Bola Tinubu’s resolve to prioritise education as a cornerstone of national development, noting that the administration chose dialogue and reform over prolonged disputes.
According to the minister, the deal lays a durable foundation for stability in federal tertiary institutions through sustained engagement, fiscal responsibility, and mutual respect, with the government pledging faithful implementation under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
