Wike Approves ₦70,000 Minimum Wage for FCT Administrative Staff

n a landmark decision, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has officially approved ₦70,000 as the new minimum wage for administrative staff of the FCT Administration. This announcement was made on Tuesday, November 19, through a statement by Anthony Odey, Press Secretary to the Acting Head of the Civil Service of the FCT, Mrs. Grace Adayilo.

This move follows President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s signing of the new Minimum Wage Bill into law in May 2024. The bill, which mandates ₦70,000 as the minimum wage, emerged after intensive negotiations with labour unions across the nation. For the FCT, this approval is a significant response to the demands of local labour unions, including the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), who had threatened industrial action if their demands were not met.

In addition to the wage increase, Wike sanctioned the payment of three months’ salary arrears, effective from November 2024. According to Mrs. Adayilo, this decision demonstrates the minister’s unwavering commitment to improving the welfare of FCTA workers. She stated, “This gesture will motivate the entire administration staff to rally around the minister as he continues to advance President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”

Addressing Labor Concerns

The approval comes in the wake of growing concerns from labour unions about the lack of engagement between the FCT administration and union representatives since Wike’s assumption of office in August 2023. Labour organizations had raised alarms over delays in implementing the new wage, signaling their intent to embark on a strike on November 30, 2024, if no resolution was reached. Wike’s decisive action is seen as a proactive step to forestall such disruptions. 

Impact on Staff Morale

Beyond addressing immediate financial challenges, the new minimum wage and arrears payment are expected to significantly boost staff morale and productivity. Mrs. Adayilo expressed gratitude to the minister for his prompt attention to staff welfare, highlighting his track record of approving allowances and claims swiftly.

FCTA staff have welcomed the initiative, viewing it as a long-overdue acknowledgment of their efforts and a step towards financial stability. The approval underscores Wike’s broader strategy to position the FCT Administration as a model for federal labour reforms.

As national discussions about wage increases continue amidst economic challenges, Wike’s leadership stands out as an example of how prioritizing civil servant welfare can align with government objectives.