In a major reform for Nigeria’s higher education sector, the Federal Government has approved the integration of Earned Academic Allowances (EAA) into the monthly salaries of university staff starting from 2026.
The announcement was made by Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa, who explained that the reform will eliminate delays in allowance payments and ensure staff welfare is addressed more sustainably.
“From 2026, lecturers and other university staff will no longer wait for separate disbursements of earned allowances. These payments will be included in their monthly salaries, ensuring prompt and predictable compensation,” Alausa said.
The Minister added that this decision is part of broader reforms aimed at restoring confidence in Nigeria’s tertiary education system. He noted that the government has also released funds under the Needs Assessment of Nigerian Universities project, with provisions in the 2026 budget to sustain the initiative.
Stakeholders have welcomed the move, describing it as a step toward ending recurring disputes between the government and university unions. By mainstreaming allowances into salaries, the government hopes to reduce the risk of future strikes and create a more stable academic calendar.
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