Bayelsa approves CATA, CONTTA for state-owned universities

Bayelsa State Government has officially approved the implementation of the Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance (CATA) and the Consolidated Non-Teaching Tools Allowance (CONTTA) for academic and non-academic staff at its three state-owned universities, Niger Delta University (NDU), Bayelsa Medical University (BMU), and University of Africa, Toru-Orua (UAT). The decision was made during a meeting held at Government House, Yenagoa, involving the leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), led by the state's Deputy Governor, Dr Peter Akpe. The approval follows a resolution passed by the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, which was communicated to Governor Douye Diri for final endorsement. According to Akpe, the financial implications of the allowance implementation will add approximately N500 million to the state’s monthly expenditure across the three universities. The total wage increase, including the payment of arrears, is estimated at around N2.25 billion, with payments set to begin by October 2026. Arrears related to the 25 to 35 percent wage award will be settled in the following year. During the meeting, Akpe emphasized the commitment of the Diri-led Prosperity administration to maintaining positive relations with organized labor. He noted that both the executive and legislative branches of government had collaborated to resolve ASUU’s demands and prevent disruptions to academic activities. Akpe urged the union to suspend its ongoing indefinite strike in the best interests of students and to continue fostering the existing rapport between the government and labor. He stated that the Governor, who has been supportive of the initiative despite some perceived intimidation tactics from ASUU, has approved the measures. Akpe also highlighted that the government had ensured the inclusion of the payment of outstanding arrears in the 2027 budget. He reiterated that the government had largely addressed the union’s concerns and encouraged the resumption of normal academic operations. In response, leaders within ASUU expressed appreciation for the state government’s efforts. Prof. Stanley Ogoun, the immediate past Zonal Coordinator of ASUU in the Port Harcourt Zone, and Dr Oyinkepreye Bebeteidoh, Chairperson of ASUU, NDU Chapter, praised the administration for its proactive approach. Bebeteidoh mentioned that the three ASUU chairpersons would convene congresses in their respective chapters to inform members of the government’s latest offer, which they found commendable. However, Dr Bebeteidoh also noted that the union remains committed to adhering to due process before deciding to discontinue the ongoing industrial action. This stance was echoed by Dr Sylva Ligeiaziba, Chairperson of BMU, and Dr Sunny Abeki, representative of UAT, who were present during the meeting. They confirmed that the union would proceed with caution, ensuring that all necessary steps were taken before concluding negotiations. The meeting marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue between the state government and ASUU, reflecting a willingness to find common ground despite the challenges posed by the prolonged strike. As discussions continue, the focus remains on restoring stability to the educational sector and ensuring the well-being of both students and faculty.