In a significant move to address financial grievances within Nigeria’s higher education sector, the Federal Government has released funds to cover the withheld salaries of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Federal Universities (NASU).
This development comes as part of broader measures aimed at alleviating financial pressures on university staff and ensuring the stability of the nation’s public university system.
The announcement was made by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF) in a statement by Bawa Mokwa, Director of Press and Public Relations, on Saturday.
Mokwa noted that the Federal Government has begun the disbursement process, with many NASU members confirming the receipt of their withheld salaries.
“This release is anticipated to alleviate financial pressures faced by university staff and contributes to stabilizing the public university system,” Mokwa said, emphasizing the government’s commitment to supporting the welfare of Nigerian workers and retirees.
In addition to NASU salaries, the Federal Government has allocated funds for the benefits of retirees under the Nigerian Union of Pensioners Contributory Pension Scheme Sector (NUPCPS).
This step underscores the government’s dedication to fulfilling its pension obligations and providing timely support to retirees.
The OAGF statement highlighted ongoing government efforts to ensure financial security for public sector employees and pensioners, stating, “The Federal Government remains committed to efficiently catering to the welfare of Nigerian workers and retirees.”
The release of funds is seen as a conciliatory gesture by the government, which has been under pressure to address salary arrears and provide financial stability within the federal university system.
It is expected that these funds will help ease the financial burden on NASU members and demonstrate the government’s commitment to resolving long-standing grievances within Nigeria’s educational sector.
