University workers across Nigeria have raised concerns over incomplete salary arrears payments and outstanding allowances despite the Federal Government’s release of funds.
According to The PUNCH, investigations across several institutions revealed differences in the implementation of the government’s 2026 agreement with university unions.
Some workers confirmed receiving arrears, while others complained about incomplete payments and uncertainty surrounding their entitlements.
The concerns involve non-teaching university employees and members of academic staff unions.
University workers demand complete payments
At the Federal University of Lafia, Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities Chairman Daniel Dajen confirmed that members had received six months of arrears.
However, he explained that the government’s announcement suggested workers should have received eight months.
“We are pleading that the government should do the needful,” Dajen said.
At the University of Ilorin, SSANU Chairman Falowo Naheem said the released funds covered certain allowances, but other entitlements remained unpaid.
He also raised concerns over the exclusion of eligible university health workers from the payment arrangements.
Payment experiences differ across universities
Workers at the University of Benin confirmed receiving eight months of arrears, although they expected nine months.
At the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, union representatives also confirmed payments covering eight months.
Meanwhile, workers at the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, reported receiving nine months of arrears.
At the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, union officials confirmed partial payment of excess workload allowances.
However, some employees in Jigawa State said they had yet to receive payment alerts or official clarification.
Union leaders called for greater transparency in the distribution of released funds.
They urged the Federal Government and university managements to settle outstanding entitlements and provide clear explanations of payment calculations.
