Controversy as States Share Different Opinions on Federal Workers’ N35,000 Wage Award 

BY ADEKE CHUKWUKA

Yesterday, states were divided over the Federal Government’s agreement with Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) on Monday night to provide a N35,000 wage award to federal workers, aiming to mitigate the impact of petrol subsidy removal.

Some states expressed alignment with the Federal Government’s N35,000 wage award, while others stated they had begun paying their workers N10,000 before the Federal Government’s decision, refusing to adhere to the central government’s move. The agreement also stipulated that the Federal Government would sustain the wage award until a new minimum wage is determined next year.

In Kwara State, the government has been paying a N10,000 wage award to its workers, remaining non-committal about raising it to the Federal Government’s N35,000. Meanwhile, in Kebbi State, discussions are underway among cabinet members to determine the appropriate wage award. The Special Adviser to Governor Nasir Idris, Malam Yahya Sarki, expressed optimism about a substantial increase, although specifics were not disclosed due to the recent agreement between the Federal Government and labor. Conversely, Enugu State promptly agreed to match the Federal Government’s N35,000 wage award for its workers.

In Niger State, the government is cautious about deciding on a salary increase following the Federal Government’s N35,000 increment announcement. They will deliberate in a council meeting led by Governor Muhammed Umaru Bago to determine a suitable figure after assessing the financial implications. 

In Adamawa State, the government is already providing N10,000 transport allowances to all workers. Ondo State plans to align with the federal government’s approach to mitigate fuel subsidy removal effects. In Oyo State, discussions between the government and labor leadership will establish a mutually satisfying package for employees, aligning with federal measures to ease the impact of fuel subsidy removal.

The Plateau State government rejects federal interference in setting wage awards for its workers. Abia State awaits clarity on the federal government-labor agreement before taking action. Cross Rivers State pays N10,000 to workers but remains undecided on adopting the federal N35,000 wage award. Delta State approves N10,000 for civil servants for three months starting August. Edo State contemplates salary awards and emphasizes the need for devolution of powers to address socio-economic challenges.