COEASU seeks full implementation of 2026 renegotiated agreements

The Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU) has urged the Federal Government and state administrations to fully enforce the 2026 renegotiated agreement, particularly concerning lecturers' allowances, welfare, and career progression. The union's National President, Dr Ahmed Lawan Waziri, made this call during the union’s 2026 Teachers' Day celebration at the National Commission for Colleges of Education headquarters in Abuja.

Waziri emphasized that the benefits of the renegotiated agreement would only be realized when its provisions translate into tangible improvements in lecturers' working conditions. He called for the mainstreaming of agreed allowances into monthly emoluments and the implementation of the seven-rung academic career structure. Waziri also praised President Bola Tinubu, Education Minister Dr Tunji Alausa, and other officials for their contributions to the renegotiation process.

The union urged state governments and management of state-owned colleges of education to give the agreement the attention it deserves, as lecturers in these institutions play crucial roles in teacher preparation. COEASU president Waziri highlighted the union's commitment to constructive engagement with government and institutional management to address challenges while protecting academic standards.

During the celebration, COEASU also announced the unveiling of its maiden academic journal, an initiative aimed at promoting scholarly research and informing reforms in teacher education. The union's Executive Secretary, Dr Angela Ajala, reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to strengthening teacher education and improving professional capacity. Ajala highlighted the government's reforms, including an accelerated pathway towards professional certification and licensing for eligible non-professional teachers.

Ajala emphasized the importance of continuous professional development, particularly in the face of rapidly changing educational landscapes driven by digital technology, artificial intelligence, inclusive education, and emerging social challenges. She stressed that teachers must not be left behind in these changes.