Civil servants in Nigeria, under the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council, Trade Union Side, have written to President Bola Tinubu, seeking immediate intervention to address the country's worsening economic hardship. The workers are demanding that the government take urgent action to alleviate their suffering. They expressed concerns about the recent increase in fuel prices to N1,430 per litre and above in some locations, which has exacerbated the cost-of-living crisis. The workers are calling for a reduction in fuel prices or an increase in the minimum wage.
The workers' union stated that the removal of fuel subsidy three years ago led to an astronomical increase in fuel prices, causing a ripple effect on the prices of essential commodities across the economy. This situation has made life increasingly difficult for workers, who are struggling to cope with the rising cost of living. The union emphasized that the provision of food palliatives is not a sustainable solution to the economic crisis, as it is inaccessible to the majority of Nigeria's population and limited to political cronies.
The Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council proposed a reduction in fuel prices to N500 per litre as a more sustainable intervention. According to the union, this measure would have a multiplier effect across the economy, helping to alleviate the suffering of workers and Nigerians. The workers also demanded an immediate wage award and an upward review of salaries and allowances across the public service.
The union gave the Federal Government until September 30, 2026, to take action on their demands, warning that the prevailing hardship is creating palpable tension among workers and Nigerians. The workers stressed that the situation is becoming unbearable and requires urgent attention from the government. They emphasized that a more sustainable solution is needed to address the economic crisis.
The workers' union also demanded the immediate constitution of a committee to negotiate a new National Minimum Wage ahead of January 2027. This move is aimed at ensuring that workers' salaries are adjusted to reflect the current economic reality. The union believes that a new minimum wage will help to alleviate the suffering of workers and improve their standard of living.
The Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council expressed concerns about the impact of the economic crisis on workers and Nigerians. The union emphasized that the provision of palliatives is not a long-term solution and that a more sustainable approach is needed to address the root causes of the economic hardship. The workers are calling for a comprehensive solution that will have a lasting impact on the economy.
The Federal Government has not yet responded to the workers' demands. However, the government is expected to take action soon to address the economic crisis. The workers' union has warned that if the government fails to take action, it may lead to further unrest and tension among workers and Nigerians. The situation remains a pressing concern for the government and the workers' union.
Key points
- The workers' union is demanding a reduction in fuel prices to N500 per litre or an increase in the minimum wage to alleviate the economic hardship facing Nigerian workers.
- The union has given the Federal Government until September 30, 2026, to take action on their demands.
- The workers' union believes that a more sustainable solution is needed to address the economic crisis, rather than relying on palliatives.
