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In a significant development for tertiary education in Benue State, Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia has greenlighted the immediate implementation of key union demands at the Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University, effectively ending years of industrial unrest that began in 2018. The announcement, made on November 1, 2025, comes as a relief to staff and students alike, signaling a new era of stability on campus.
The breakthrough stems from successful negotiations between the state government team—headed by Secretary to the State Government, Dcn. Seruman Deborah Aber, Esq.—and representatives from university management and unions, including ASUU, SSANU, NASU, and NAAT. The parties formalized their agreement through a Memorandum of Agreement aimed at addressing persistent welfare and salary concerns.
A pivotal letter dated October 31, 2025, and signed by the Permanent Secretary (General Services), detailed the approved measures. These include the full rollout of the newly sanctioned minimum wage template and the immediate settlement of minimum wage arrears dating back to November 2023. Additionally, the government committed to proper placement and payment of salaries for previously promoted staff, effective from October 2025 salaries, alongside a pledge to clear all outstanding promotion arrears from as far back as 2018.
Efforts are also underway to appoint a substantive Vice-Chancellor, a move expected to further solidify administrative leadership.
University management has voiced profound gratitude to Governor Alia for his swift intervention and dedication to staff welfare. They hailed the decision as a landmark achievement in restoring peace and boosting productivity within the institution.
This resolution not only alleviates immediate financial burdens on employees but also sets a precedent for proactive governance in resolving labor disputes in Nigeria’s public universities. As implementation begins, all eyes are on Benue Varsity to see how these changes translate into enhanced academic and operational efficiency.
