Joe Ajaero, NLC President, criticizes Federal Government’s salary increase announcement for civil servants. He questions its authenticity. Ajaero deems the announcement “mischievous,” highlighting concerns over its timing and economic realism. Ajaero described the announcement as “mischievous,” emphasizing that it does not constitute a genuine wage increment.
Amidst global Workers’ Day celebrations, Ajaero questioned the timing and nature of the salary increase announcement. He suggested it may not accurately mirror workers’ economic realities, expressing concerns during the Sunrise Daily program.
Emmanuel Njoku, spokesperson for NSIWC, announced the salary hike on Tuesday, effective from January 1st, 2024. The increase spans different salary structures like CONPSS and sector-specific ones for research, law enforcement, and defense. However, Ajaero argued that the last minimum wage of N30,000 expired on April 18, stressing the need for urgent discussions and the implementation of a new minimum wage.
Ajaero emphasized the hurdles in securing a new minimum wage, citing stalled discussions despite legislative efforts through the National Assembly. He noted the government’s reluctance to reconvene meetings, hindering progress in addressing workers’ economic concerns.
He lamented the inadequate nature of the current minimum wage, which he argued no longer meets the basic needs of the average Nigerian worker. Additionally, Ajaero expressed concern over the uneven implementation of the current wage award by some state governors, underscoring the importance of periodic reviews to align with contemporary economic demands.
Furthermore, Ajaero disclosed that Organised Labour had reached a consensus on setting a living wage of N615,000 for civil servants. He elaborated on the components of this proposed living wage, which includes provisions for housing, utilities, food, healthcare, education, transportation, and other essential expenses. Additionally, Ajaero emphasized the necessity of ensuring that the proposed living wage adequately sustains workers’ livelihoods and does not subject them to financial hardship or deprivation.
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