The Nigerian government's Committee on Consequential Adjustments in Salaries for civil servants has agreed to set the effective date for the implementation of the new minimum wage at July 29, 2024. This decision was made during a meeting on Friday and outlined in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) issued at the end of the session.
The Committee, headed by the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, noted that the government considered the country's economic situation before making its decision.
The MOU also recommended that the wage award discontinued by the government should be paid up until July 28, 2024.
However, the decision has faced criticism from labour unions. Benson Upah, the Head of Information of the Nigerian Labour Congress, described the backdating to July as unfair and unacceptable.
Timmy Etim, the National Vice President of the Trade Union Congress, also criticized the government's move, stating that it was unfair considering the Minister of State for Labour's previous promise that the new minimum wage would take effect in May..
Some civil servants have also expressed their discontent with the delay in implementing the N70,000 new minimum wage, citing the government's insensitivity and long-term "I don't care attitude" towards the suffering of the people.
The Committee also recommended that the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) should generate appropriate salary templates for other consolidated salary structures.
