This study examined the psychological determinants of academic staff retention in public universities in Adamawa State, Nigeria, between 2011 and 2021. The specific objectives were to assess the impact of leadership, remuneration, organisational support, and procedural justice on staff retention. The research focused on tenure academic staff from Modibbo Adama University, Yola, and Adamawa State University, Mubi, with a total population of 1,336. Using purposive and simple random sampling techniques, 500 questionnaires were distributed, out of which 408 were completed and returned. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. Findings revealed that psychological factors such as promotion, compensation, and supervisor support are perceived positively by academic staff, with mean values above the threshold of 3.00, indicating strong consensus on their effectiveness. Regular and merit-based promotions, fair compensation, and supportive departmental leadership were identified as key drivers of staff retention. Based on these findings, the study recommends enhancing transparency in promotion processes, improving compensation structures, and strengthening supervisory support to further boost retention and engagement among academic staff.