Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has approved the implementation of the new salary structure for workers in state-owned tertiary institutions, effective from 2026.
The Commissioner for Education, Dr. Peters Nwagor, disclosed this on Thursday, August 13, 2026, during a familiarisation visit to Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt.
Nwagor said the visit was aimed at engaging with the university community, understanding its challenges and strengthening collaboration between the state government and the institution.
He explained that payment of the new salary structure and the accompanying arrears would begin once funds are released by the state government.
According to him, the implementation is based on the 2026 agreements between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) as well as the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), which seek to improve staff welfare and promote industrial harmony.
The salary review covers the Consolidated University Academic Staff Salary Structure (CONUASS) and the Consolidated Tertiary Institutions Staff Salary Structure (CONTISS), alongside improved allowances and other benefits.
Nwagor commended the Vice-Chancellor of IAUE, Professor Okechuku Onuchuku, and his management team for their efforts in producing teachers who contribute to improving education across Rivers State.
He urged the university to focus on quality, accountability and measurable results, stressing that government investments in education should translate into better learning outcomes, stronger research and improved employment opportunities for graduates.
The commissioner also called for greater research activities in teacher education, science, mathematics, technology and educational management, urging the institution to develop research that addresses real challenges in society and supports effective policymaking.
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He further encouraged IAUE to strengthen partnerships with industries, professional bodies and the private sector to provide students with internship, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities.
Nwagor also called for the involvement of the university’s alumni in supporting its development and urged the institution to comply with the National Universities Commission’s Benchmark Minimum Academic Standards.
Responding, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Okechuku Onuchuku, thanked Governor Fubara for approving the implementation of the agreement with the unions.
Onuchuku assured that the university would continue to fulfil its responsibilities and comply with NUC directives.
However, he appealed to the state government for increased intervention in areas including student accommodation, staff offices, classrooms, laboratories, perimeter fencing, electricity and the rehabilitation of the access road to the university.
The Vice-Chancellor stressed that sustainable development of the institution would require adequate funding and urged stakeholders to work with the government to improve the university.
The commissioner was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Dr Mina Tele Ikuru, and other directors of the ministry.
