Gombe governor approves N148.76m monthly funding for state university

Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Yahaya has approved a significant increase in monthly funding for Gombe State University, allocating an additional N148.762 million. This enhanced subvention, effective from October 2026, is intended to facilitate the full implementation of the Consolidated Academic Tool Allowance (CATA).

The governor's decision addresses demands from the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and concerns stemming from the 2025 Federal Government-ASUU agreement. The university's ASUU branch had previously issued a 14-week ultimatum, which has yet to expire, before considering strike action.

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Governor Inuwa Yahaya has approved an additional N148.762 million monthly subvention to the institution to facilitate the full implementation of the Enhanced Salary Structure, known as the Consolidated Academic Tool Allowance, effective from October 2026.

Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibrahim Njodi, announced the approval, noting that the additional funding represents a 56% increase in the university's monthly subvention. This will enable the institution to make adequate budgetary provisions for the enhanced salary structure. The funds are slated to be included in the 2026 supplementary budget for consideration by the State House of Assembly in September.

Governor Yahaya, who also serves as the university's Visitor, directed the management to immediately begin processing the payment of outstanding CATA arrears. Furthermore, the university administration is tasked with exploring internal measures for the gradual settlement of other staff obligations, including arrears from the 25% and 35% wage awards, minimum wage adjustments, and Earned Academic Allowances. The government plans to address these outstanding obligations in phases, balancing the university's financial position with the need to maintain academic stability.

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Governor Inuwa Yahaya has also directed the university management to immediately commence the necessary processes for the payment of outstanding CATA arrears.