As Nigeria marks Workers’ Day, civil servants across the country have voiced frustration over the inadequacy of the N70,000 minimum wage, saying it can no longer cover their basic needs due to the rising cost of living.
The federal government had last year approved a new N70,000 minimum wage to help workers cope with economic hardship. While some states have gone a bit higher, many workers say their salaries still fall short of meeting everyday expenses like food, rent, transport, and school fees.
In Kano State, where workers now receive N71,000, civil servants say the raise has little impact on their financial struggles. Sulaiman Aminu Yakasai, a government employee, said he relies on a side business to survive. “Even with the increment, I have to work weekends at the market just to provide for my family,” he said.
Another teacher, Salihu Umar, said his shop at the Kantin Kwari garment market remains his lifeline despite being in full-time employment. “The salary just doesn’t last the whole month,” he said.
Women are not spared either. Binta Abdullahi, a health worker, sells goods to her colleagues to make ends meet. “More than half of my salary goes into transport alone,” she lamented.
In Kaduna State, workers say the wage has not been fully implemented. A teacher identified as Abdul described the situation as unfair. “Local government workers are the worst affected. Workers’ Day has no meaning to us anymore,” he said.
Another civil servant, Usmaniya, said salary increases were minimal. “I got just N4,000 extra after all the announcements. What’s the point of furthering education when there’s no difference in pay?” he asked.
Health worker Zainabu said she hasn’t seen her pay slip in months and is unaware of her allowances. “Hazard and rural allowances are not paid. It’s really frustrating,” she said.
In Borno State, Mustapha Modu said the N70,000 minimum wage can’t support his household. “With school fees, rent, and food prices, this salary is nothing,” he said.
Other workers like Rabilu Muhammad said the wage increase feels like a punishment. “Electricity tariffs alone now consume most of our income,” he said.
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Kwara workers described their situation as being caught between “the devil and the deep blue sea.” A civil servant known as AB said the wage barely lasts two weeks. “Essential goods are so expensive now. Without tackling inflation, this wage increase is meaningless,” he added.
In Ondo State, workers called for a more stable economy. “The N70,000 minimum wage does nothing in today’s market,” one said.
Bayelsa civil servants also complained that their take-home pay disappears in daily transport and bills. “Even N80,000 can’t sustain a family. I’ve had to start learning tailoring to make extra income,” said Mrs. Ebiere Marlin.
Meanwhile, retirees in Plateau State are yet to benefit from the increase. Comrade Gunshin Yarlings said harmonisation of pensions is long overdue.
In his Workers’ Day message, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar praised Nigerian workers as the driving force of national progress. Senate President Godswill Akpabio assured of more labour-friendly legislation, while the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) called for better recognition of workers’ efforts.
As workers across the country continue to struggle, many are calling for a more realistic wage structure and urgent steps to stabilise the economy. Until then, the N70,000 minimum wage may remain just a number in the face of harsh economic realities.
