Gombe Government Moves to Resolve ASUU Grievances with N148.7 Million Monthly Funding Hike

Governor Muhammadu Yahaya has authorized a significant increase in monthly funding for Gombe State University to address staff welfare concerns and implement an enhanced salary structure.

The Gombe State Government has approved an additional N148.762 million in monthly subvention for Gombe State University, marking a 56 percent increase in the institution’s funding. The move, effective from October 2026, is designed to facilitate the full implementation of the Consolidated Academic Tool Allowance (CATA).

Governor Yahaya, who serves as the university’s Visitor, directed the institution’s management to immediately begin processes for clearing outstanding CATA arrears. The decision comes amid demands from the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), whose branch at the institution had previously issued a 14-week ultimatum to the state government over unresolved welfare issues.

Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Njodi, announced the approval in a statement issued by the Director-General of Press Affairs at the Government House, Ismaila Misilli. According to Njodi, the additional funding will enable the university to make adequate budgetary provisions for the enhanced salary structure when reflected in the 2026 supplementary budget, which is expected to be presented to the State House of Assembly in September.

Beyond the CATA implementation, the governor has also directed university management to explore internal mechanisms for gradually settling other outstanding staff obligations, including arrears of 25 percent and 35 percent wage awards, minimum wage adjustments, and Earned Academic Allowances. The government intends to address these obligations in phases, considering the institution’s financial position while avoiding disruptions to academic activities.

In a parallel development, the Gombe State House of Assembly has passed legislation establishing the Gombe State Education Trust Fund, which is scheduled to begin operations in October 2026. The fund aims to create a sustainable financing framework for education across the state, particularly benefiting Gombe State University and other state-owned tertiary institutions.

The government has called on ASUU to consider the measures already taken and urged the union to support efforts aimed at maintaining industrial harmony at the university. The administration reaffirmed its commitment to working with all stakeholders to preserve stability and ensure continued development of the institution.