Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has increased the monthly government funding support for the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) to N276 million as part of efforts to strengthen the institution and resolve ongoing labour concerns.
The latest intervention adds N115 million to the university’s previous monthly subvention of N161 million.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued by the Secretary to the Enugu State Government (SSG), Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, on Tuesday in Enugu.
Government Seeks End to ASUU Strike
Alongside the funding increase, the state government appealed to members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), ESUT chapter, to suspend their ongoing industrial action and return to academic activities.
Onyia assured the lecturers that outstanding issues would be addressed through dialogue and constructive engagement.
He said students should not suffer prolonged disruption because of disagreements that could be resolved through negotiation.
“We appeal to ASUU-ESUT to reciprocate this gesture by resuming academic activities, while all outstanding issues are addressed through constructive dialogue,” he said.
ESUT Funding Increased by N140m Since February
The SSG explained that the latest intervention forms part of a broader increase in government support to ESUT since February 2026.
Before the recent adjustment, the state government provided N136 million monthly to the university.
In February, an additional N25 million monthly intervention was introduced for the ESUT College of Medicine (ESUCOM) to support the employment and payment of 120 additional staff.
This increased the monthly government support to N161 million before the latest N115 million increase.
Funding to Support Staff and Students
According to Onyia, the additional resources are aimed at helping ESUT meet its financial obligations, particularly those affecting staff welfare and academic operations.
He said the intervention demonstrates the Mbah administration’s commitment to supporting workers and maintaining uninterrupted education for students.
“This additional N115 million monthly intervention is a substantial commitment of public resources aimed at strengthening ESUT and ensuring that the institution can meet its obligations to its staff and students,” Onyia said.
Government Links Funding to Education Priorities
The SSG said the increased funding would also support ESUT in meeting obligations arising from salary agreements between ASUU and the Federal Government.
He urged the university management and ASUU leadership to continue engaging constructively to resolve remaining concerns.
According to him, the priority should be restoring a stable academic calendar and ensuring students receive quality education without further interruption.
Mbah Administration Promises Continued Support
The Enugu State Government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ESUT and positioning it as a leading science and technology institution.
Onyia said the government would continue to provide support within available resources and take measures aimed at improving the university’s capacity to fulfil its academic mandate.
He appealed to all stakeholders to prioritise dialogue and cooperation in the interest of students, staff and the wider education sector.
