The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has rejected the Federal Government’s proposed 35 per cent salary increase for academic staff, describing it as inadequate and reflective of the longstanding underfunding of Nigeria’s university system.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday at the Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), the Lagos Zonal Coordinator of ASUU, Prof. Adesola Nassir, criticised the offer as “wretched,” insisting that it would still leave Nigerian academics among the lowest-paid on the continent.
Nassir said the proposed increment does not match the economic realities facing lecturers, noting that the value of academic salaries has depreciated significantly over the years. He explained that when the 2009 FG–ASUU agreement was signed, a professor earned about $3,000 monthly, but that figure has dropped to roughly $400 today.
“Even with a 35 per cent increase, a professor’s salary will still not reach one million naira. After tax deductions, it falls to around N700,000,” he said, warning that such poor remuneration continues to fuel brain drain and diminish the quality of education.
ASUU also expressed concern over the persistent decline in education funding. Nassir noted that government spending on education has remained below 10 per cent for more than a decade, with current allocations falling below one per cent of the nation’s GDP. He contrasted this with higher investment levels in countries like Egypt and South Africa.
“The funding crisis has reached a critical point. The government must address the consequences of its neglect and prioritise the future of our children,” he said, urging Nigerians to support calls for substantial investment in the sector.
Nassir warned that unless the Federal Government recommits to implementing the 2009 agreement and addressing key issues affecting universities, the union may be forced to embark on an indefinite nationwide strike.
“A miracle will be needed to prevent a total shutdown of public universities if the government fails to act,” he added.
