Public servants in Nigeria, represented by the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC), have reaffirmed their ultimatum to the Federal Government over the rising cost of petrol, wage awards, and the commencement of negotiations for a new national minimum wage. The JNPSNC, comprising eight public sector unions, issued a three-day warning strike notice to the Federal Government, beginning October 2, if their demands are not met. The unions include the Nigerian Civil Service Union and the Medical and Health Workers Union.
The JNPSNC had written to President Bola Tinubu on September 21, demanding that the price of petrol be slashed to N500 per litre, a wage award be announced, and negotiations for a new national minimum wage of at least N500,000 begin. The council's National Secretary, Gbenga Olowoyo, stated that the September 30 deadline for the government to address these issues remains sacrosanct. Failure to do so will result in a three-day warning strike.
The current price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) ranges from N1,450 to N2,000 per litre, with prices as high as N2,500 per litre in some locations. The JNPSNC described this as unacceptable and called for an intervention fund to address landing costs and support oil and gas operators. They also suggested that the Federal Government should sell crude oil to the Dangote Refinery and modular refineries at appropriate terms to increase domestic refining.
The economic hardship caused by the high cost of fuel is placing the survival of Nigerian workers, their dependants, and the general populace under severe pressure. The JNPSNC urged the Federal Government to approve a wage award for Nigerian workers to cushion the effects of the prevailing harsh economic conditions. They believe this will enable public servants to consolidate their loyalty, commitment, and productivity.
The JNPSNC also demanded that the Federal Government establish a tripartite committee to facilitate negotiations for the new national minimum wage, expected to become due in 2027. They stressed the need to avoid administrative or procedural delays that could affect the implementation of the new National Minimum Wage. The committee will comprise representatives from the government, employers, and workers.
If the Federal Government fails to address the JNPSNC's demands, public servants nationwide will commence a three-day warning strike beginning October 2. The council emphasized that the Independence Day address by the President should adequately address these critical issues. Failure to do so will attract the displeasure of Nigerian workers and their dependants.
The JNPSNC's ultimatum comes as the cost of living in Nigeria continues to rise, with many citizens struggling to make ends meet. The council's demands are aimed at mitigating the effects of the economic hardship and ensuring a better standard of living for Nigerian workers. The Federal Government's response to the ultimatum will be crucial in determining the next course of action for public servants.
Key points
- The JNPSNC has issued a three-day warning strike notice to the Federal Government, beginning October 2, if their demands are not met.
- The council is demanding a reduction in petrol price to N500 per litre, a wage award, and the commencement of negotiations for a new national minimum wage.
- The strike action may affect public services nationwide, exacerbating the economic hardship faced by many Nigerians.
