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| Federal university workers |
The Federal Government has approved a new package to improve the welfare of employees in federal tertiary institutions, announcing a 35 per cent increase in hazard allowances for eligible workers across the country's universities and other higher institutions.
The decision also includes a substantial upward review of annual hazard allowances for senior officials, with directors now entitled to receive ₦600,000 under the new structure.
The revised allowances are part of ongoing efforts by the government to address staff welfare concerns and recognise the occupational risks faced by workers in the nation's tertiary education sector. The approval followed engagements between government representatives and relevant education sector unions.
Under the new arrangement, hazard allowances for other categories of staff have also been reviewed based on their grade levels, responsibilities and the nature of their duties. The government believes the adjustment will provide greater financial support for workers exposed to workplace hazards while carrying out their responsibilities.
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Officials said the review reflects the administration's commitment to improving conditions of service for employees in federal tertiary institutions and ensuring that compensation better reflects the demands of their jobs.
The latest increase comes at a time when university workers have continued to push for improved salaries, better welfare packages and enhanced funding for public higher education. Labour unions have repeatedly argued that rising living costs and inflation have reduced the value of existing allowances and employee earnings.
Education stakeholders have welcomed the move, describing it as a positive step towards boosting staff morale and supporting the delivery of quality teaching, research and administrative services in federal institutions.
However, some observers believe additional reforms will still be required to fully address long-standing concerns within the education sector, including infrastructure deficits, funding challenges and the implementation of other agreements reached with academic and non-academic staff unions.
The government maintained that improving workers' welfare remains a key priority and expressed confidence that the revised hazard allowance structure would contribute to a more motivated workforce across federal tertiary institutions.
The announcement is expected to benefit thousands of employees working in federal universities and other government-owned higher institutions as the new allowance structure takes effect.