The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has approved the immediate implementation of N70,000 as the new minimum wage for administrative staff within the FCT Administration.
The announcement was made on Tuesday through a statement issued by Anthony Odeh, Press Secretary to the Head of the Civil Service of the FCT.
This decision aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s signing of the Minimum Wage Bill into law in May 2024, which set N70,000 as the national minimum wage.
The move followed months of negotiations with labor unions, addressing growing concerns over wage disparities and workers’ welfare across the country.
In recent months, tensions in the FCT had escalated as the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) threatened a strike by November 30, 2024, citing delays in implementing the new minimum wage.
The unions accused Wike’s administration of failing to engage labor representatives since his inauguration in August 2023, further fueling unrest among workers.
In a bid to address these concerns, Wike not only approved the N70,000 minimum wage but also directed the payment of three months’ arrears, effective from November 2024.
The Acting Head of the Civil Service of the FCT, Mrs. Grace Adayilo, confirmed the development, describing it as a relief for workers and a demonstration of the administration’s commitment to their welfare.
Adayilo highlighted that this decision would inspire workers to support the minister in advancing President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.
The statement reaffirmed Wike’s dedication to improving the welfare of FCT workers, signaling a proactive approach to resolving labor concerns and fostering a productive workforce.
