Tinubu's 40% Pay Rise for Lecturers Faces Delays

President Bola Tinubu's approved 40% salary increase for university lecturers has stalled, causing industrial unrest in Nigeria's tertiary education sector. More than eight months after the agreement was reached, some universities have begun payments while others are still negotiating, leaving many lecturers without the new salary.

The agreement, which includes revised allowances and was set to take effect from January 1, 2026, aimed to address ongoing disputes regarding remuneration and conditions of service. Following an ASUU National Executive Council meeting on August 8 and 9, the union directed branches in 20 universities to issue 14-day ultimatums to their managements.

Lecturers at Adekunle Ajasin University and Olusegun Agagu University have already commenced indefinite strikes. ASUU officials stated that strikes would continue until payments are confirmed.

The Ondo State Commissioner for Education confirmed that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa approved the funds, which are currently undergoing administrative processes.