The Federal Government has announced the payment of eight months’ arrears of the Consolidated Non-Academic Staff Tertiary Institutions Allowance to non-academic workers in federal universities, polytechnics and colleges of education.
The development comes days after the workers issued an ultimatum to the Federal Government over the unpaid allowance, which covers the period from January to August 2026.
The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, announced the release of the funds on Wednesday.
According to Alausa, the payment reflects the government’s efforts to address welfare concerns among tertiary institution workers and prevent issues that could disrupt 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 explained that the payment forms part of broader government measures aimed at addressing legitimate welfare concerns, maintaining industrial harmony and reducing disruptions to academic activities across the country.
“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 also assured that the Federal Ministry of Education would continue engaging relevant unions, institutional heads and other stakeholders to address unresolved matters.
He called for sustained cooperation among academic and non-academic staff, institutional authorities and unions.
The minister added that the ministry would maintain its focus on staff welfare, institutional stability, human capital development and better 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.