The federal government has ordered all federal universities to integrate the approved 40 per cent increase in the Consolidated Academic Allowance (CAA) into their payroll systems.
The directive took effect from January 1, 2026. It follows the renegotiated agreement between the government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
Increase Targets ASUU Welfare
The minister of education, Tunji Alausa, issued the directive on Monday.
He said the government had begun implementing key welfare components of its agreement with ASUU.
According to him, the allowance increase reflects President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to academic staff welfare and the stability of the university system.
Some Universities Already Complying
Alausa said some federal universities have already started paying the increased allowance.
However, he warned against uneven implementation across institutions.
As a result, the government formally notified all federal universities to cascade the increment within their systems.
Payroll Integration Mandatory
The minister directed vice-chancellors to fully integrate the allowance into their payroll structures.
He said this would ensure that all eligible academic staff benefit.
Alausa stressed that partial compliance undermines the agreement and threatens industrial harmony.
Compliance With CATA Framework
He also reminded university managements to strictly comply with the Consolidated Tools Allowance (CATA) framework.
According to him, the allowance has been captured and circularised by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC).
He added that CATA has been included in the 2026 budget.
Universities Told to Act Promptly
The minister urged vice-chancellors to act quickly.
He asked them to use available resources to ensure prompt payment of CATA in line with NSIWC guidelines.
Alausa said timely implementation of both the CAA increase and CATA would boost staff morale.
He added that it would also improve teaching, research and learning outcomes across federal universities.
