The national headquarters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is reportedly considering a reduction in workdays for its staff, following the surge in transport fares caused by the recent hike in fuel pump prices by the government. This measure is aimed at helping employees cope with the economic hardship that has emerged as a result of increased transportation costs.
A director at the APC headquarters, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, revealed that the proposal to cut down the workweek to two or three days is currently under review by the party’s leadership. “I can confirm to you that the party is seriously contemplating giving work-free days to the staff to help them manage the prevailing hard economic situation caused by the recent increase in the price of petroleum resources,” the source said.
The director noted that many APC staff members have been struggling to get to work on time since the fuel price adjustment, which has led to a significant increase in the cost of transportation across the country. “The truth remains that since the recent change in pump price, it has been difficult for many Nigerians to cope, and our staff are not exempted. We have noticed that even when they manage to make it to the office, they arrive very late due to the difficulty in finding transportation,” the director added.
In light of these challenges, the APC directors have held discussions and reached a decision that will be presented to the National Working Committee (NWC) for consideration and approval. The proposed arrangement would allow staff members to work fewer days each week, likely two or three, with departments organizing rotational shifts to ensure that essential functions are maintained.
“If approved, staff from each department will be able to coordinate their schedules, so that some employees take responsibility for the department’s work on their assigned days,” the director explained.
This move comes as a direct response to the widespread economic strain that has followed the removal of fuel subsidies and the subsequent increase in the price of petroleum products, which has had ripple effects across various sectors, particularly transportation. Many businesses and organizations, including government agencies and political parties, are grappling with the impact of these changes, prompting innovative solutions to alleviate the burden on workers.
The decision to reduce workdays is part of a growing trend among institutions and organizations in Nigeria, which are adjusting their operations to reflect the new realities of economic hardship. If the proposal is approved, the APC will join other entities that have adopted flexible work arrangements to help employees manage rising living costs.
