National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) has urged for transparent dialogue and strict adherence to legal protocols in response to reports suggesting the potential revocation of 7,000 hectares of land designated for Yakubu Gowon University, previously known as the University of Abuja (UNIABUJA).
In a statement released to the press on Wednesday in Abuja, NAAT’s National President, Mr. Ibeji Nwokoma, addressed concerns over claims that the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Mr. Nyeson Wike, was planning to reclaim a portion of the university’s 11,000-hectare allocation.
Nwokoma highlighted that NAAT’s attention was also drawn to a Federal Government announcement about the Tertiary Institutions Staff Support Fund (TISSF), which coincided with the reported land issue.
He expressed apprehension about the situation, stressing that land allocated to educational institutions is a vital national asset meant to foster academic growth, innovation, and infrastructure development.
“This land is more than just property—it’s a cornerstone for future academic expansion, including research facilities, new academic departments, and student accommodations,” Nwokoma stated.
He emphasized that any decision affecting the university’s land must comply with legal frameworks and align with the institution’s master plan, which supports national development objectives. “Such actions require legislative approval from the National Assembly and must respect institutional integrity,” he added.
Regarding the TISSF, a recently launched initiative by the Federal Ministry of Education to improve staff welfare, NAAT voiced concerns about its loan-based structure.
While acknowledging the initiative’s intent, Nwokoma argued that it risks imposing long-term financial burdens on staff.
“Our members need their outstanding entitlements prioritized, not loan schemes that resemble salary advances,” he remarked.
Nwokoma listed unresolved financial obligations owed to NAAT members, including three and a half months of withheld salaries, seven months of Occupational Hazard Allowance arrears, two months of third-party deductions, eleven months of Responsibility Allowance arrears, twelve months of 25% and 35% salary increase arrears, four months of wage award arrears, unpaid N30,000 Minimum Wage arrears since 2019, and outstanding Earned Allowances.
He urged the government to redirect TISSF funds toward settling these dues, which would provide immediate relief to academic technologists and their families.
Additionally, Nwokoma called on the National Assembly, particularly its tertiary education and TETFund committees, to collaborate with stakeholders, including the FCT Minister, to ensure decisions about university infrastructure align with national educational goals.
“NAAT is dedicated to advancing Nigeria’s tertiary education sector. We are optimistic that through constructive engagement, these issues can be resolved for the benefit of students, staff, and the future of Nigerian education,” he concluded.
