In a significant move to bolster the financial well-being of workers nationwide, the Federal Government has sanctioned a substantial salary boost ranging from 25% to 35% for police officers, armed forces personnel, and public servants. This announcement, delivered through the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission on Tuesday, brings relief to many and goes into effect from January 1, 2024.
Emmanuel Njoku, Head of Press for NSIWC, outlined the approved increase for civil servants across six consolidated salary structures, stating unequivocally, “The Federal Government has approved an increase of between 25% and 35% in salary for civil servants on the remaining six consolidated salary structures.”
The revised structures span various sectors, ensuring equitable benefits for workers in public service, research institutions, law enforcement, paramilitary forces, intelligence agencies, and the armed forces.
Previously, those in tertiary education and health sectors had received salary boosts, with structures like the Consolidated University Academic Salary Structure and Consolidated Medical Salary Structure already in place. Now, with the latest decision, the momentum extends to polytechnics, colleges of education, and other public institutions.
Pensioners under the Defined Benefits Scheme will also see an increase in their pension payments, ranging from 20% to 28%, aligning with constitutional provisions and safeguarding their financial security.
Negotiations leading to this decision involved Nigerian civil servants advocating for a raise, initially aiming for a 40% increase. However, negotiations resulted in a pragmatic range of increases between 25% and 35%, slated for implementation in January 2024.
Meanwhile, Nigerian labor unions continue their battle for a substantial hike in the minimum wage. Proposals from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) vary, reflecting regional disparities and economic challenges faced by workers nationwide.
With talks ongoing and influenced by recent events such as electricity tariff hikes, unions are reevaluating their demands, seeking a fair minimum wage that addresses rising inflation and the escalating cost of living. A final decision is anticipated by May 1, 2024 (May Day), marking a potential turning point for workers’ rights and economic stability in Nigeria.