Nigerian professors are lamenting poor salaries that have left many of them living on loans and struggling to survive.

In interviews, the lecturers explained that their monthly pay of about ₦500,000 is not enough to cover basic expenses. Some admitted they now take multiple loans just to pay school fees and buy fuel.

Prof. Adebowale Adejumo of the University of Ilorin revealed that he has been forced into debt because all his children attend private universities. “When I convert my salary, it is barely $320 per month. In South Africa, my colleagues earn over $10,000 monthly,” he said.

Another professor in Enugu confessed that he owes millions to cooperative societies. He described the situation as “pathetic” and said salaries run out almost immediately after payment.

Retired professor of law, Nnamdi Aduba, also explained that after deductions and taxes, his salary often fell below ₦400,000. He argued that professors should be paid at least ₦2 million monthly to keep up with rising costs.

Other academics echoed the same frustrations. They warned that poor welfare has killed morale, discouraged young Nigerians from pursuing academic careers, and lowered teaching standards in universities.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has repeatedly criticised the government for ignoring lecturers while politicians enjoy pay rises. Union leaders warn that unless salaries are improved, Nigeria’s university system may face collapse.