The Federal Government of Nigeria has successfully concluded negotiations on consequential salary adjustments following the implementation of the new National Minimum Wage Act of 2024. This landmark agreement, which raises the minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000, was finalized with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) by both the government and trade unions.
The 16-member committee responsible for the salary adjustments, chaired by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF) that led the Federal Government team, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, was inaugurated by President Bola Tinubu to oversee the implementation of the new wage structure. The committee was tasked with ensuring a smooth transition to the updated wage system, and it completed its work swiftly, leading to the signing of the MOU over the weekend in Abuja.
Mrs. Walson-Jack praised the committee members for their dedication and efficiency during the negotiation process. “Both the trade union and government sides have agreed on the consequential adjustments in salaries arising from the new minimum wage of N70,000,” she stated in a press release signed by Mrs. Eno Olotu, Head of Information and Public Relations for the Office of the Head of Civil Service.
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According to Walson-Jack, the negotiation process was one of the shortest and most peaceful in Nigeria’s history, with both parties reaching an agreement swiftly and without conflict. The signed MOU has been handed over to both sides and will now be forwarded to the federal government for further action.
On behalf of the trade unions, Comrade Benjamin Anthony, National Chairman of the Joint Negotiating Council, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the negotiations and commended the HCSF for her leadership. He noted that the peaceful conclusion of the process was a testament to the commitment of both parties to improving the welfare of Nigerian workers.
The new N70,000 minimum wage represents a significant increase, and its swift approval and implementation signal a positive shift in the federal government’s commitment to addressing the financial needs of its workforce. As Nigeria moves forward, this wage adjustment is expected to have a major impact on the standard of living for millions of federal workers, boosting morale and setting the stage for economic growth.
