As Nigerians mark this year’s Workers’ Day, many civil servants across the country are voicing frustration over the N70,000 minimum wage. Despite its implementation in some states, workers say it no longer meets their basic needs due to persistent inflation.
Last year, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the revised minimum wage, and a few states went a step further by slightly increasing it. However, rising living costs have overshadowed the wage hike, leaving workers scrambling to survive.
In Kano State, the government began paying N71,000, just above the national benchmark. Nevertheless, civil servants report that the increase is inadequate.
Sulaiman Aminu Yakasai, a civil servant, said he juggles his office duties with a side business. “The salary alone can’t support my family. So, after work and on weekends, I head to the market,” he explained.
Another worker, Salihu Umar, a teacher, has kept his shop open at Kantin Kwari. According to him, the extra income is vital since the salary doesn’t stretch through the month.
For many women, the situation is no different. Binta Abdullahi, a health worker, said she sells wares at work just to stay afloat. “More than half my salary goes to transportation. Inflation has devoured the wage increase,” she added.
Kaduna: Workers Lament Partial Implementation
Meanwhile, in Kaduna, workers are disheartened by what they describe as unfair treatment. Abdul, a teacher, said local government employees are especially neglected. “Our salary can’t sustain a family. What’s the point of celebrating Workers’ Day when our struggles are ignored?”
Usmaniya, another civil servant, noted that only junior workers received noticeable increases. He said, “I got just N4,000 more. It makes you question the value of furthering your education.”
Furthermore, health worker Zainabu said she hasn’t received her payslip in months. “We don’t know what we’re entitled to anymore. Hazard and rural allowances aren’t being paid,” she added.
In Borno State, Mustapha Modu questioned the logic of the wage structure. “How can N70,000 cover rent, school fees, and food?” he asked.
Similarly, Rabilu Muhammad said electricity bills and mobile data now consume much of his earnings. “With Band A tariffs, over half my salary goes to electricity. The removal of subsidies has made life harder,” he said.
According to a civil servant in Kwara identified as AB, workers are now stuck between “the devil and the deep blue sea.” While the wage increase offered a glimmer of hope, skyrocketing prices quickly crushed expectations.
“Transport, food, and utility costs rise daily. The wage can’t support a family for even two weeks,” he observed. Without inflation control, he warned, salary hikes will remain meaningless.
Mr. Ola, another civil servant, urged the government to introduce price controls and provide additional support. “Free healthcare, transport systems, and housing aid would ease our burden,” he suggested.
A secondary school teacher, who spoke anonymously, described the situation as “a cycle of hardship.” She said, “This isn’t a living wage. We’re stuck in survival mode.”
Ondo, Bayelsa Workers Demand Economic Stability
In Ondo, workers called for a more stable economy. They argued that even the new wage no longer meets daily expenses.
Bayelsa civil servants echoed similar concerns. Tareibi, a level 8 officer, said his monthly income barely covers his family’s basic needs. “Between feeding, transport, and bills, there’s nothing left,” he said.
Ebilade, a ministry worker, noted that the minimum wage can’t even cover groceries. Meanwhile, Mrs. Ebiere Marlin shared that her husband enrolled her in a tailoring class to help supplement their income.
Although Plateau State has implemented the N70,000 wage for current workers, retirees say they’ve seen no change. Comrade Gunshin Yarlings, a former NLC chairman, urged the government to harmonise pensions to match the new wage.
Leaders Praise Nigerian Workers
Despite workers’ struggles, national leaders praised their resilience. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described them as “the engine propelling Nigeria’s prosperity,” while commending their contributions to national development.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio also pledged labour-friendly legislation. He applauded workers’ productivity and commitment to nation-building.
The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) joined in marking May Day, calling for true recognition of Nigerian workers. The party expressed solidarity with labourers and urged meaningful action to improve their conditions.
