A day after the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) warned about the possible resumption of strike over unresolved welfare issues, the Federal Ministry of Education has directed all Vice Chancellors of Federal Universities to urgently submit data on outstanding promotion arrears, salaries, third-party deductions, and pension arrears.
In a circular dated Nov. 6, 2025, and signed by Mrs. J. N. Akpa, Deputy Director (Universities), on behalf of the Director, University Education, the Ministry said the directive followed the Honourable Minister’s instruction to fast-track the resolution of pending financial obligations to university staff.
The letter, addressed to the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC) and copied to all Vice Chancellors, emphasized the need to provide the requested figures in tabular form and in both hard and soft copies (Excel format).
It further stated that the submission should reach the NUC on or before the close of work on Friday, Nov. 7, 2025.
According to the Ministry, the data will enable the Nigerian University Pension Management Company (NUPEMCO) to process the necessary details to facilitate payments of arrears and deductions.
The Ministry’s directive comes amid growing tension in the university system, following ASUU’s warning that the government’s failure to address pending salary arrears and promotion entitlements could force lecturers back to strike.
The Federal Ministry of Education, however, assured Vice Chancellors of the Minister’s commitment to resolving all outstanding issues affecting university staff welfare.
