Niger state approves N80,000 minimum wage for civil servants
The Niger State government has announced an increase in the minimum wage for civil servants to N80,000, set to take effect in November 2024.
Governor Umaru Bago made this announcement after extensive discussions with the state’s labour union leaders, highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting civil servants amid rising living costs.
Governor Bago assured state workers that Niger’s recent investments in agricultural development would play a critical role in funding the new wage structure.
He expressed confidence that, as agricultural productivity rises, the state will be able to sustain the higher wage and may even consider additional increases in the future.
“This is very sustainable,” Bago emphasized. “With our agricultural strides, we are sure we can pay. We are creating a civil service farm to encourage productivity among civil servants. With this initiative, we could even consider a minimum wage of N1 million.”
READ ALSO: NLC lauds Kebbi gov;t for approving ₦75,000 minimum wage
The new wage structure will apply to both state and local government workers, marking a significant policy shift aimed at alleviating economic pressures on public sector employees.
Governor Bago also confirmed that October salaries have already been disbursed, which means that the N80,000 wage will be implemented from November onward.
Idris Lafene, the Niger State chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), commended the state government for its progressive stance. “I am delighted. Niger State is now among the leading states in implementing an improved minimum wage,” Lafene remarked, noting that the approved amount exceeded the union’s expectations.
Despite this milestone, Lafene acknowledged that the new wage still falls short of covering the full cost of living in today’s economy.
READ ALSO: Lagos to pay N85,000 minimum wage; Gov. Sanwo-Olu
“N80,000 is not enough to buy a bag of rice in the market, but it is a step forward,” he added, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by workers amidst inflation and high commodity prices.
Governor Bago’s initiative reflects a broader trend, with various Nigerian states recently announcing minimum wage increases in response to the rising cost of living across the country.
Follow the Neptune Prime channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va74ZvU2v1IqKByXoX3d
Do you have breaking news, interview request, opinion, suggestion, or want your event covered? Email us at neptuneprime2233@gmail.com
