FG pays eight months’ allowance arrears to varsity workers

File photo: Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa.

Days after non-academic workers in federal universities, polytechnics and colleges of education issued an ultimatum, the Federal Government has announced the release of their eight months’ arrears of the Consolidated Non-Academic Staff Tertiary Institutions Allowance.

The allowance covers January to August 2026.

Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, announced the release on Wednesday.

The payment, according to the minister, signals the Federal Government’s efforts to address staff welfare concerns across the tertiary education sector and ease tensions that could threaten the stability of the academic calendar.

“The release of CONTA demonstrates the administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare and recognition of the critical role played by non-academic personnel in keeping tertiary institutions functional,” Alausa said.

He said the payment was part of the Federal Government’s broader efforts to address legitimate welfare concerns, promote industrial harmony and minimise disruptions to academic activities nationwide.

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“The administration will continue to strengthen institutions responsible for developing Nigeria’s human capital. A stable tertiary education system is essential to the country’s socio-economic development,” he said.

Alausa further gave the assurance that the Federal Ministry of Education would sustain consultations with relevant unions, heads of institutions and other stakeholders to resolve outstanding issues.

He appealed for continued cooperation from academic and non-academic staff, institutional authorities and unions.

The minister said that the education ministry would continue to prioritise staff welfare, institutional stability, human capital development and improved learning outcomes.

“The Federal Government remains committed to fulfilling its obligations to personnel in the tertiary education sector and addressing outstanding welfare issues in line with the human capital development objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Alausa added.

Deborah Tolu-Kolawole is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with four years of experience covering Nigeria’s vast education sector as well as related areas such as politics, health, security, and labour. She blends rigorous reporting with digital storytelling to bring clarity and insight to complex issues affecting learners, educators, and policymakers. Deborah was a nominee for The Future Awards Africa (TFAA) Prize in Journalism, recognising her impactful reporting and contributions to Nigerian media. Her work reflects strong newsroom experience, editorial judgment, and a commitment to accurate, audience-focused journalism. In addition to her reporting, she is fluent in multiple languages and serves as a contributing member of The Punch editorial board.

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