The National Association of Staff Union (NASU) has issued a strong warning regarding the selective disbursement of the N50 billion earned allowance allocated by the federal government to workers in Nigerian universities. The union has expressed deep concern that the uneven distribution of these funds could lead to unrest within the academic sector.
In a statement released earlier this week, NASU leadership emphasized that the allowance, which was meant to settle outstanding payments for workers’ earned benefits, should be equitably distributed across all university staff, without favoritism or bias. The union has raised alarms over reports suggesting that certain categories of staff may be unfairly excluded or given disproportionate portions of the funds.
NASU National President, Comrade [Name], called the situation “unacceptable” and warned that such practices would only exacerbate existing tensions within the university system. “The earned allowances were promised to address long-standing issues of wage disparity and underfunding within our institutions. Any attempt to selectively allocate these funds will not only be a breach of trust but will also destabilize the harmony we have worked hard to maintain,” Comrade said.
The controversy surrounding the N50 billion earned allowance follows a series of discussions between the federal government and university unions, including NASU, to settle outstanding salary arrears and enhance the welfare of academic staff. However, the union has highlighted growing dissatisfaction among members, who fear that the promise of fair payment is being undermined.
“We are not asking for anything more than our due share,” said Comrade . “We have seen certain staff members receive preferential treatment, while others who are equally deserving remain marginalized. If this issue is not addressed promptly, we will have no choice but to take further action.”
NASU’s warning has sparked renewed calls for transparency and accountability in the disbursement of public funds. The union has called for an immediate audit of the distribution process, urging the government to ensure that all eligible staff members receive their fair share of the allowance in line with the agreements made.
The federal government has yet to respond to NASU’s concerns, but sources within the Ministry of Education have indicated that efforts are underway to address the issue and ensure the smooth and fair distribution of the earned allowance.
As the situation unfolds, the eyes of university staff, students, and stakeholders remain fixed on both NASU and the government, as this matter could have significant implications for the future of Nigeria’s higher education sector.
source: thenationonlineng.net
