Federal Government Approves Salary Increase for Public Servants

In a move aimed at addressing long-standing demands for improved compensation, the Federal Government of Nigeria has greenlit a substantial increase ranging from 25 to 35 per cent in the salary structures of key sectors, including police officers, armed forces personnel, and civil servants.

Announced by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission on Tuesday, the salary adjustment, effective from January 1, 2024, was disclosed in a statement by the Head of Press, Emmanuel Njoku. The increase applies to civil servants under six consolidated salary structures, including the Consolidated Public Service Salary Structure and the Consolidated Armed Forces Salary Structure.

Previously, sectors such as tertiary education and health had received their salary enhancements, encompassing structures like the Consolidated University Academic Salary Structure and the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure.

Additionally, pensioners on the Defined Benefits Scheme are set to benefit from a 20 to 28 per cent increase in pension, aligning with constitutional provisions and taking effect from the same date.

The decision follows extensive negotiations, with initial proposals floating a 40 per cent raise. However, an agreement was reached for a more moderate range of increases between 25 and 35 per cent, satisfying federal civil servants under the consolidated salary structures.

Meanwhile, labor unions have been advocating for a substantial raise in the minimum wage, citing inflation and the soaring cost of living. While initial proposals varied, recent events such as the electricity tariff hike have influenced downward revisions in demands. Negotiations continue, with the Nigeria Labour Congress aiming for around N500,000 per month, with a final decision expected by May 1, 2024, coinciding with May Day.