The forum, while applauding the Federal Government for the
introduction of wage award, however, enjoined the government not to devalue the
naira after the implementation of the new national minimum wage.
Emelieze also tasked the government to clear all outstanding
arrears owed the federal workers and announce the new minimum wage on Workers
Day, May 1, 2024.
“While we appreciate Mr President for the ₦35,000 wage award,
we make bold to say that the ₦35,000 palliative did not solve the economic
challenges faced by the federal government workers in Nigeria. It has been an
hellish existence for the federal workers since the removal of subsidy on
petrol and the subsequent devaluation of the naira.
“That the new national minimum wage takes off officially on
April 1st, 2024 and that we expect the announcement of the new national minimum
wage latest on Workers’ day May 1st, 2024.
“Our position is very clear, President Tinubu has promised a
living wage, federal workers will not accept anything less. With the present
cost of living crisis ₦300,000 which is not up to 1% of the President’s salary,
will not be too much for a federal minimum wage.
“For daily survival, a worker will need an average of ₦2,000
daily transport and at least ₦2.000 per meal hence,a worker will be needing an
average of ₦10,000 ( at around $1 per hour) to manage to survive daily.
“We call for justice, we demand for a decent, fair and just
living wage for the federal work force. We will resist and reject anything less
than a living wage. Our government should also not forget to clear all
outstanding arrears owed the federal workers.
“The Federal government is also called upon not to in anyway
devalue the naira after the implementation of the new national minimum wage.
Federal workers have suffered enough, it is time to end poverty among the
federal government workers,” he said.
