FG to Exempt Universities from IPPIS, Approves New Science and Technology University in Abuja

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has called for the immediate implementation of its earlier decision to remove public universities from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) platform.

This directive, aimed at addressing a long-standing grievance of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), instructs the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) to expedite the process.

ASUU has repeatedly opposed the use of IPPIS for university staff salaries, arguing that the system does not accommodate the unique requirements of the academic environment. This move by the FEC is seen as a significant step toward resolving this contentious issue.

In addition to this decision, the Council has approved the establishment of a new National University of Science and Technology in Abuja. This follows an initial approval granted by former President Muhammadu Buhari on May 28, 2023, during the final days of his administration. The new university is intended to be a pioneering institution, the first in a planned network of Pan-African Institutes of Science and Technology.

The primary mission of the new university will be to educate and train African scientists and technologists, enhancing the continent’s capacity in these critical fields. The establishment of this university and the decision to exempt universities from IPPIS are seen as significant steps towards resolving long-standing issues within Nigeria’s higher education system and advancing scientific and technological education in the region.