The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Joe Ajaero, has criticized the federal government’s 35% pay rise for civil servants, branding it as deceptive.
Ajero stated during an interview on Channels Television on Wednesday, he contended that the true living wage should be set at N615,000.
The federal government had earlier approved a salary increase ranging from 25% to 35% for civil servants across different consolidated salary structures.
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Ajero however pointed out that discussions on the minimum wage, which expired on April 18, were yet to be concluded.
He expressed dismay over the timing of the announcement, stating that the government had failed to reconvene the adjourned meeting for wage negotiations.
According to the labour leader, the current move by the government is concerning for both the NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC).
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Ajero emphasized that the NLC has determined N615,000 as the minimum living wage for civil servants. He broke down the components of this wage, including housing, utilities, food, medical expenses, education, clothing, sanitation, and transportation, highlighting the necessity for a wage that sustains livelihoods without pushing workers into poverty.
He further urged for scrutiny of the proposed living wage, emphasizing the importance of fair compensation that adequately addresses the needs of workers and their families.