Federal Civil Servants in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have expressed deep frustration over the prolonged delay in implementing the new minimum wage of N70,000, as the economic conditions in Nigeria continue to worsen.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the standard of living for many Nigerians has significantly deteriorated since President Bola Tinubu announced the removal of fuel subsidies on May 29, 2023.
The subsequent liberalization of the exchange rates in June, which led to the floatation of the Naira, further compounded the economic challenges, sparking a lengthy negotiation between organized labor and the Federal Government.
Despite both parties settling on a new minimum wage of N70,000 on July 19, the promised wage increase, expected to take effect from January, has yet to be implemented, leaving civil servants struggling to make ends meet.
Mrs. Maimuna Tijani, a civil servant in the FCT, described the delay as frustrating and unfair, highlighting how the government’s inaction has exacerbated the hardships faced by workers.
“It shows a lack of commitment to improving the welfare of citizens,” Tijani said.
She noted that she had been forced to cut down on non-essential expenses and seek additional sources of income, such as tutoring, to cope with the current economic situation.
Similarly, Mr. Mathew Afolabi, a teacher, acknowledged that while the government might be facing economic challenges, prioritizing workers’ welfare is critical.
“Without a wage increase, the purchasing power of the average teacher continues to erode, leading to more significant economic problems,” Afolabi lamented.
He added that he had started budgeting more strictly, avoiding unnecessary purchases, and considering moving to a cheaper area to reduce rent expenses.
Mrs. Lydia Dimka, a nurse, expressed disappointment with the government’s history of delaying promises, noting that the average worker suffers the most as inflation rises while wages remain stagnant.
“I have had to take on extra shifts and some side jobs to supplement my income,” Dimka said, adding that her family had also reduced their grocery budget by buying in bulk and choosing cheaper alternatives.
Ms. Chioma Ufodike echoed these sentiments, stating that the delay indicates the government’s disconnect from the realities faced by the average Nigerian worker.
“If the government understood the daily struggles, this wage increase would have been implemented immediately,” Ufodike said, revealing that she had resorted to carpooling and using public transport more often to save on fuel costs.
Mrs. Seido Terso, a journalist, described the delay as unacceptable and a sign of disrespect for workers who have been patiently waiting for the wage increase.
“The government needs to take swift action before things get worse for everyone,” Terso warned, sharing that she had been trying to save money by cooking at home and avoiding eating out.
Meanwhile, Dr. Chijioke Ekechukwu, an economist, argued that the solution to Nigeria’s economic woes goes beyond implementing the minimum wage.
“The solution is to ensure that the inflation rate reduces, the exchange rate moderates, fuel prices are reduced, employment opportunities are created, and criminality and banditry are reduced,” Ekechukwu explained.
He added that the government must fulfill its promises to maintain public trust.
In a shocking development, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) on Tuesday directed an increase in the pump price of petrol from around N568 per litre to approximately N855 per litre.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) swiftly condemned the hike, with its President, Joe Ajaero, calling for an immediate reversal.
Ajaero expressed a deep sense of betrayal, noting that the acceptance of the N70,000 minimum wage was based on the understanding that there would be no further increase in fuel prices.
“We opted for the latter because we could not bring ourselves to accept further punishment on Nigerians,” Ajaero said.
He added, “But here we are, barely one month after and with the government yet to commence payment of the new national minimum wage, confronted by a reality we cannot explain. It is both traumatic and nightmarish.”
