Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris has approved a new minimum wage of N75,000 for civil servants, a decision applauded by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) following intensive negotiations. The announcement came after a two-day marathon meeting between state officials and union leaders, with immediate effect as payments begin in October.
Murtala Usman, Chairman of the Kebbi NLC, expressed satisfaction with the governor’s decision, calling it a clear signal of solidarity with the workers. “We proposed different figures, and the governor chose the highest, N75,000, showing he is with the workers,” Usman said, adding that Idris ordered the processing of the payments within 72 hours.
In Akwa Ibom, Governor Umo Eno took similar steps, announcing a new minimum wage of N80,000 for public sector workers. According to a statement by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Ini Ememobong, an implementation committee has been formed to ensure a smooth transition. The committee, headed by the state’s Head of Civil Service, Effiong Essien, is expected to submit its report within a month.
Labour unions in both states have praised the wage increases, with Dominic Abang, the Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Akwa Ibom, describing the development as a significant boost for workers. “The governor’s consideration to raise it above the national minimum wage is appreciated, and we will continue our discussions,” he said.
While workers in Kebbi and Akwa Ibom celebrate, the situation in Sokoto remains tense. The state’s NLC has voiced frustration over the delay in wage negotiations, with Secretary Hamisu Hussain revealing that repeated efforts to engage the government have so far yielded no response. He warned that if no action is taken by the end of the week, the union might be forced to escalate the matter.
As civil servants in various states witness historic pay raises, the spotlight now turns to other governors to follow suit or face increasing pressure from labour unions across the country.