Abuja: The Federal Government has commenced payment of renegotiated welfare packages for members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), including a 40 per cent increase in the Consolidated Academic Allowance (CAA) effective January 1, 2026.
Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, said the move reflects President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to staff welfare and university stability, with federal universities directed to integrate the increment into their payrolls and ensure prompt disbursement of the Consolidated Tools Allowance (CATA).
Alausa reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare of academic staff and the stability of the university system.
He said some federal universities had already reflected the increase in salary payments.
He directed all federal universities to ensure full compliance. Universities must integrate the approved increment into their payroll structures. This will ensure all eligible academic staff benefit.
The Minister also stressed strict adherence to the implementation of the Consolidated Tools Allowance (CATA). He noted that its payment has been captured and circularised by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC). CATA is also included in the 2026 budget.
He urged university management to use available resources to ensure prompt payment of CATA in line with NSIWC guidelines.
Alausa said the timely implementation of both the CAA increase and CATA would strengthen the academic environment, enhance staff morale, and improve teaching, research, and learning outcomes.
He emphasised that the Federal Government is committed to fulfilling agreements with education stakeholders, maintaining open communication, and prioritising stable, high-quality education in Nigeria.
