The Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC), representing Nigerian civil servants, has issued a ultimatum to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, requiring a response to their demands by September 30, 2026. The council wants the Federal Government to reduce and stabilize the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to N500 per liter, citing the current price of N1,430 per liter as a significant burden on workers. They argue that this reduction will have a broader impact on the economy, as transportation costs are closely linked to fuel prices.
The JNPSNC also demands an immediate Wage Award for public servants, an upward review of salaries and allowances, and the commencement of negotiations for a new National Minimum Wage ahead of January 2027. The council criticizes the government's use of food items as palliatives, arguing that this approach is unsustainable and limited to a select few. Instead, they propose a fuel intervention fund to support stakeholders in the petroleum sector and reduce pressure on pump prices.
The civil servants express support for the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) position on addressing the country's fuel situation. The NLC suggests that Nigeria should utilize its crude oil resources and expand domestic refining capacity. They propose that the government sell crude oil to local refineries in naira and increase the country's storage capacity to create jobs and economic value.
The JNPSNC argues that government intervention is justified during periods of economic pressure and that subsidizing citizens' needs is necessary. They propose a Wage Award that would cover workers at the Federal, State, and Local Government levels, citing the loss of purchasing power due to rising costs of goods and services. The council calls for salaries and allowances to be reviewed to reflect prevailing economic conditions.
The council also demands that the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) begin discussions with stakeholders on the proposed Wage Award and salary review. They propose establishing a committee to negotiate a new National Minimum Wage, which would take effect from January 2027. The JNPSNC suggests that an officer on Grade Level 01, Step 1, should receive a minimum monthly salary of N500,000.
The JNPSNC emphasizes that the current economic situation is creating tension among workers and Nigerians generally. They stress that the government's response is crucial in addressing the economic hardship faced by workers and their families. The council's demands are aimed at providing relief to workers and stimulating economic growth.
The ultimatum issued by the JNPSNC highlights the growing concerns about the economic situation in Nigeria. The government's response to these demands will be crucial in determining the course of action to be taken. The situation remains a pressing issue, with workers and Nigerians generally eagerly awaiting the government's response.
Key points
- The JNPSNC demands a reduction in fuel price to N500 per liter.
- The council proposes a fuel intervention fund to support stakeholders in the petroleum sector.
- The JNPSNC demands an immediate Wage Award and an upward review of salaries and allowances.
