The Federal Government has approved the payment of eight months’ outstanding Consolidated Non-Academic Staff Tertiary Institutions Allowance to non-academic workers in federal universities, polytechnics and colleges of education.
The arrears, covering January to August 2026, were released days after non-academic staff unions issued an ultimatum over the unpaid allowance.
Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, announced the payment on Wednesday, describing it as part of the government’s efforts to address welfare concerns and prevent issues affecting tertiary institutions 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.
According to the minister, the payment is also aimed at promoting industrial harmony and addressing legitimate concerns raised by workers across the tertiary education sector.
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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 said the Federal Ministry of Education would continue engaging relevant unions, institutional heads and other stakeholders in a bid to resolve other outstanding issues.
He also appealed to academic and non-academic workers, unions and management of tertiary institutions to sustain their cooperation with the government.
The minister reiterated the ministry’s 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.