The Federal Government has begun the implementation of major welfare provisions under its newly renegotiated agreement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), signaling a renewed commitment to improving the conditions of academic staff across federal institutions.
In a directive issued to Vice-Chancellors of federal universities on Monday, Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa announced a 40 per cent increase in the Consolidated Academic Allowance (CAA) for ASUU members, effective from January 1, 2026.
According to the minister, several universities have already reflected the increment in their salary payments.
Alausa emphasised that all federal universities are expected to fully integrate the approved increase into their payroll systems, ensuring that all eligible academic staff receive the enhanced remuneration without delay.
In addition, the minister highlighted the Consolidated Tools Allowance (CATA), stressing that its payment has been formalised by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) and is accounted for in the 2026 national budget.
University managements were urged to utilize available resources to guarantee timely disbursement of CATA in compliance with NSIWC guidelines.
Speaking on the broader impact of the payments, Dr. Alausa stated that the implementation of both CAA and CATA adjustments is expected to strengthen the academic environment, boost staff morale, and improve teaching, research, and learning outcomes across the nation’s universities.
The minister reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to upholding agreements with education stakeholders, promoting transparency, and maintaining industrial harmony, all while advancing the continuous improvement of quality higher education in Nigeria.
This move comes after prolonged negotiations between the Federal Government and ASUU, following recurring industrial actions that had disrupted academic activities in several universities.
The early rollout of salary and allowance adjustments is being viewed as a positive step towards restoring normalcy in the country’s tertiary education sector.
