In a major development aimed at restoring stability and motivation across the education sector, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has approved a 70 percent salary increase for both academic and non-academic staff of state-owned tertiary institutions. The announcement marks a significant victory for the workers, following weeks of industrial action that had paralyzed academic activities across the state’s colleges and polytechnics.
The governor’s approval comes after an extensive meeting with the leadership of the Joint Union of Tertiary Institutions (JUTIKS), which represents staff across Kaduna’s state-owned higher institutions. The negotiation, held at the Government House in Kaduna, concluded with several groundbreaking resolutions that demonstrate the administration’s renewed commitment to staff welfare and educational advancement.
Implementation of the 2024 Salary Structure
Governor Sani’s directive authorizes the implementation of 70 percent of the 2024 CONPCASS and CONTEDISS salary structures for all eligible staff. The adjustment is expected to take effect from October 2025, covering institutions such as Kaduna State Polytechnic, Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, College of Education Gidan Waya, and other tertiary institutions under the state government.
The new salary structure aligns with national standards and is designed to alleviate the financial pressure on staff, many of whom have struggled under the previous pay regime. By adopting the 2024 structure, the government aims to harmonize salaries with those of similar institutions nationwide, ensuring competitiveness and fairness.
Key Decisions and New Welfare Policies
The meeting between Governor Uba Sani and the union leaders did not stop at salary adjustments. Several key welfare reforms were also approved, including:
- Retirement Age Extension: The retirement age for academic and non-academic staff has been officially raised to 65 years, giving staff more time to contribute their expertise to the state’s academic growth.
- 40-Year Service Policy: Non-teaching staff can now serve up to 40 years before retirement, a policy designed to reward loyalty and dedication.
- Reinstatement of Industrial Harmony: With the approval of the salary increase, JUTIKS has agreed to call off its month-long strike, allowing teaching and administrative activities to resume immediately across all affected institutions.
These decisions mark a turning point in Kaduna’s tertiary education landscape, offering renewed hope to thousands of staff members who had long advocated for fair compensation and improved working conditions.
Governor Sani’s Commitment to Education and Human Capital Development
Governor Uba Sani emphasized that despite the state’s ongoing financial constraints, his administration will continue to prioritize education and workers’ welfare. He revealed that Kaduna State currently shoulders a monthly debt repayment of about ₦5 billion, but assured that essential sectors such as education, health, and security remain at the heart of his government’s policy agenda.
According to him, investing in the welfare of educators directly impacts the quality of instruction and the overall standard of learning across the state. He noted that no meaningful development can take place without well-motivated and fairly compensated personnel driving the process.
Governor Sani also commended the resilience of the unions and staff for their patience and understanding throughout the negotiation period, stressing that the new agreement represents a partnership built on trust, dialogue, and shared responsibility.
Unions Commend the Governor’s Leadership
The leadership of the Joint Union of Tertiary Institutions (JUTIKS) expressed deep appreciation to Governor Sani for his “listening leadership and unwavering commitment” to staff welfare. They described the outcome of the meeting as a testament to the governor’s transparency and genuine interest in advancing education in Kaduna State.
Union representatives further pledged to ensure industrial peace across all campuses, promising to work collaboratively with the government to sustain academic stability and institutional development.
Implications for the Education Sector
The implementation of the 70 percent salary increase is expected to significantly boost staff morale, reduce turnover, and improve productivity in Kaduna’s tertiary institutions. It may also set a positive precedent for other states, especially in Northern Nigeria, where tertiary education has often struggled with underfunding and staff dissatisfaction.
Analysts believe that by addressing key welfare issues and prioritizing dialogue with unions, the Sani administration is positioning Kaduna as a model for effective governance and sustainable education reform.
Balancing Fiscal Responsibility with Development Goals
While the salary increase is a welcome relief for thousands of staff, it also presents a challenge for the state government, which must balance wage commitments with other pressing development needs. Nevertheless, Governor Sani has reiterated his administration’s resolve to manage available resources prudently while ensuring that education remains a top priority.
Observers have lauded the move as a courageous decision, considering the current economic climate and the financial obligations faced by the state. They note that the governor’s action reflects strong political will and a long-term vision for educational transformation.
A New Chapter for Kaduna’s Tertiary Institutions
With the strike now suspended and staff welfare improved, Kaduna’s tertiary institutions are set to reopen with renewed vigor and commitment to academic excellence. Students who had been stranded for weeks can now return to their campuses, while management teams are expected to realign academic calendars to make up for lost time.
Governor Uba Sani’s latest intervention underscores his administration’s broader agenda of promoting quality education, human capital development, and sustainable growth across Kaduna State. By prioritizing the welfare of educators and institutional staff, the government is laying a strong foundation for a more resilient and productive education system.
