FG–ASUU Seal Historic Deal, End 16-Year Standoff; New University Reforms Begin January 2026

The Federal Government of Nigeria and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have reached a landmark agreement on the renegotiation of the 2009 pact, bringing to a close a 16-year dispute that has long strained the nation’s university system. The new agreement, finalised on December 23, 2025, will take effect from January 1, 2026.
Under the deal, academic staff will receive a 40 per cent salary increase, while professors retiring at the age of 70 will be entitled to pension benefits equivalent to their full annual salary. The agreement also introduces a revised funding model for universities, with dedicated allocations for research, libraries, laboratories, equipment, and staff development.
In addition, the pact stipulates that only Professors may contest positions such as Provosts and Deans, reinforcing academic leadership standards. To ensure relevance and sustainability, the agreement will be subject to review every three years.