Civil servants declare ‘war’ on states over delayed salary adjustments

Millions of Nigerian public servants are on the brink of industrial action as frustration mounts over the delayed implementation of salary adjustments tied to the N70,000 national minimum wage. The Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC) has issued a stern warning to state governments, accusing them of reneging on collective bargaining agreements and wage negotiations.

Labor leaders gathered in Osogbo, Osun State, for a national retreat, expressing deep discontent over what they describe as a pattern of unfulfilled promises, delayed benefits, and inconsistent policies. They argue that rising inflation continues to erode workers' earnings, while many state governments have yet to fully implement the new wage structure, leaving public servants to bear the brunt of economic hardship.

A key resolution from the meeting was a direct warning to states that have not implemented the consequential salary adjustments. While many states have complied, a significant number have lagged, creating disparities and resentment among workers. The JNPSNC stated its national leadership would take "appropriate hard steps" to ensure defaulting states comply with the wage agreement, raising concerns about potential strikes.

Beyond the current wage adjustments, the council also addressed the declining real value of earnings due to soaring inflation. Participants noted that the N70,000 minimum wage, established less than two years ago, has already lost substantial purchasing power. Consequently, the JNPSNC urged both federal and state governments to consider a 400% increase on the current minimum wage to address the escalating cost of living.