Relief for tertiary workers as FG releases eight-month arrears

The Federal Government has approved the payment of eight months’ outstanding Consolidated Non-Academic Staff Tertiary Institutions Allowance (CONTA) owed to non-academic workers in federal universities, polytechnics and colleges of education.

The allowance covers the period from January to August 2026.

Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, announced the development on Wednesday, days after non-academic staff unions issued an ultimatum over the unpaid allowance.

Alausa said the payment was part of the government’s efforts to address workers’ welfare concerns and prevent issues in the tertiary education sector from disrupting 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 formed part of wider measures by the Federal Government to resolve legitimate welfare concerns, foster industrial harmony and reduce the likelihood of disruptions to academic activities across the country.

According to him, the government remains focused on strengthening institutions responsible for developing Nigeria’s human capital.

“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.

The minister also said the Federal Ministry of Education would continue discussions with relevant unions, heads of tertiary institutions and other stakeholders to resolve issues that remain outstanding.

He appealed to academic and non-academic staff, institutional authorities and unions to maintain cooperation in the interest of stability in the education sector.

Alausa reiterated that staff welfare, institutional stability, human capital development and better learning outcomes would remain priorities of the ministry.

“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.