FG Releases Eight-Month CONTA Arrears to Tertiary Workers

Relief has come to non-academic workers in federal tertiary institutions as the Federal Government approved the release of eight months’ outstanding Consolidated Non-Academic Staff Tertiary Institutions Allowance(CONTA).

The payment covers arrears owed workers from January to August 2026 in federal universities, polytechnics and colleges of education.

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

Alausa said the release formed part of the government’s efforts to address workers’ welfare concerns and prevent disputes from disrupting academic activities across tertiary institutions.

He described the payment as recognition of the important role non-academic personnel play in keeping tertiary institutions running.

“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,” the minister said.

Alausa explained that the payment also formed part of broader measures to resolve legitimate welfare concerns and promote industrial harmony.

He said the government wants to reduce the risk of disputes that could interfere with academic activities across the country.

The minister further stated that 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.

Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Education will continue talks with relevant unions, heads of tertiary institutions and other stakeholders on outstanding issues.

Alausa urged academic and non-academic staff, institutional authorities and unions to sustain cooperation in the interest of stability within the education sector.

He said staff welfare, institutional stability, human capital development and improved learning outcomes would remain key priorities for the ministry.

The minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to meeting its obligations to tertiary education personnel under the human capital development objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“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.