The Federal Government has released N50 billion to academic and non-academic staff unions of federal universities to settle earned allowances, fulfilling a pledge made by President Bola Tinubu.

The announcement was made on Wednesday by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, in a statement titled “FG Releases N50bn Earned Allowances to Varsity Unions, Tinubu Reaffirms Education Priority”, issued by Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press at the Federal Ministry of Education.

According to the statement, the disbursement underscores President Tinubu’s commitment to revitalising Nigeria’s education sector and building a knowledge-driven economy through strategic investment in human capital and infrastructure.
“This intervention is more than just a financial commitment—it reflects the President’s belief in the power of education and the crucial role played by university staff in nurturing future leaders,” said Alausa.

He added that prioritising staff welfare is central to ensuring that every Nigerian child receives quality, globally competitive education.
President Tinubu also expressed appreciation to university unions for their trust and cooperation, which he noted have contributed to one of the longest uninterrupted academic sessions in recent times.

“The youth are the heartbeat of our country,” the President said. “Keeping our children in school is non-negotiable. My administration is committed to ensuring that strikes in our institutions become a thing of the past.”

This development marks a significant step in resolving longstanding disputes between the government and university-based unions, who have, in the past, clashed with previous administrations over unpaid allowances and unmet agreements.