Big news out of Kaduna State! The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has officially confirmed that the government has started rolling out the new N72,000 minimum wage. This is a massive win for workers who have been waiting a long time for their pay to catch up with the rising cost of living. While this is a fantastic first step, the NLC is keeping the pressure on to ensure everyone benefits.
Here’s a quick rundown of the key points:
- Kaduna State government has begun paying the new N72,000 minimum wage.
- The initial payment is for civil servants on Grade Levels 1-6.
- The NLC is pushing for full implementation across all sectors, including teachers, health workers, and local government staff.
- A staff and pension verification exercise is currently underway, expected to conclude by September 2025.
- Local Government Councils are set to implement the wage soon.
Kaduna Government Takes Action on Minimum Wage
Speculation has been rife, but the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Kaduna State chapter, has put an end to the doubts. They’ve confirmed that the state government has indeed begun disbursing the new N72,000 minimum wage. This positive development is initially reaching civil servants on the lower salary scales, specifically those on Grade Levels 1 to 6. This move is seen as a crucial step towards ensuring a fairer income for those who need it most.
NLC Demands Full and Fair Implementation
Ayuba Magaji Suleiman, the state chairman of the NLC, hailed the commencement as a “positive first step.” However, he was quick to emphasize that the fight isn’t over. Suleiman stressed the urgent need for teachers, healthcare professionals, staff at tertiary institutions, and employees of parastatals and local governments to also receive the benefits of the new wage structure. He pointed out that the full implementation is currently linked to an ongoing staff and pension verification process, which is anticipated to wrap up by September 2025. “Workers have endured years of stagnated wages while inflation bites harder. The ₦72,000 minimum wage is not a favour—it is a right. Every worker, from state to local government, education to healthcare, must be carried along,” Suleiman declared, highlighting the persistent challenges faced by the workforce.
Local Governments Set to Follow Suit
The good news doesn’t stop with the state civil service. Suleiman also revealed that the 23 Local Government Councils within Kaduna State are preparing to roll out the new minimum wage to their respective workers. The necessary groundwork and administrative structures are reportedly being put in place to facilitate the disbursement process. This expansion means that the impact of the N72,000 minimum wage will soon be felt at the grassroots level.
Positive Outlook for Healthcare Workers
In addition to the wage news, the NLC leader expressed his approval of the government’s plans to introduce new salary structures for healthcare workers. The adoption of revised scales under CONMESS (Consolidated Medical Salary Structure) and CONHESS (Consolidated Health Sector Salary Structure) is a welcome development that acknowledges the vital role of medical professionals.
NLC Vows Continued Advocacy
The NLC remains resolute in its mission. Suleiman vowed that the union would maintain its pressure on the government until the N72,000 minimum wage is fully and equitably implemented across all sectors. “We are in constant dialogue with the government. Workers must remain calm and vigilant, but we assure them that we will not rest until every worker receives their rightful pay,” he stated, reinforcing the NLC’s commitment to advocating for workers’ rights. This ongoing dialogue and vigilance are crucial to ensure that the gains made are sustained and that all workers in Kaduna State receive the remuneration they deserve.
What This Means for Kaduna Workers
The implementation of the N72,000 minimum wage is more than just a number; it’s a significant step towards improving the quality of life for many families in Kaduna. With inflation continuing to pose a challenge, this increase is expected to provide much-needed relief and stimulate the local economy. The NLC’s active role in negotiations and advocacy underscores the importance of organized labour in ensuring fair labour practices and economic justice.
| Phase | Target Group | Estimated Completion |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | Civil Servants (Grade Levels 1-6) | September 2025 (Ongoing) |
| Phase 2 | Teachers, Health Workers, Tertiary Institutions, Parastatals | Post-Verification Completion |
| Phase 3 | Local Government Councils | To be announced |