The Federal Workers Forum (FWF) has rejected a proposed ₦100,000 national minimum wage, describing it as an inadequate “Greek gift” that fails to address the harsh economic realities facing Nigerian workers.
In a communiqué issued on Sunday following a weekend meeting and opinion poll, the forum criticized state governors for hypocrisy, noting that many who previously claimed they could not afford the current ₦70,000 minimum wage are now suggesting ₦100,000.
The statement, jointly signed by National Coordinator, Mr. Andrew Emelieze, National Secretary, Mr. Ayo Ogundele, and National Mobilisation Officer, Mr. Aminu Yerima, urged authorities to follow due process and negotiate a genuine living wage.
The forum argued that the implementation of the existing ₦70,000 minimum wage has already fallen short of expectations and failed to improve purchasing power.
According to the communiqué, the government merely added a uniform ₦40,000 across grade levels, which was subsequently eroded by various deductions.
Furthermore, the FWF expressed deep frustration over the non-implementation of a promised 40% peculiar allowance, alongside years of accumulated outstanding promotion arrears, wage awards, and duty tour allowances.
Beyond wage disputes, the FWF highlighted the severe economic and psychological toll on civil servants, stating that workers nationwide are living daily in fear and uncertainty.
The communiqué lamented the compounding impacts of inflation, skyrocketing living costs, the removal of the fuel subsidy, and the declining value of the naira.
The forum emphasized that federal workers are constantly confronted with the dual challenges of basic survival and personal safety in the face of the nation’s current economic climate.
The workers’ body also raised an alarm over the country’s worsening security situation, noting that citizens and civil servants are increasingly exposed to kidnappings, killings, and violent crimes.
The FWF pointed out that schools have become primary targets for criminal attacks, leaving many victims, including children, in captivity.
Warning that continued government inaction could deepen public dissatisfaction, the forum reminded the administration of its constitutional responsibility to guarantee the security and welfare of its people.
In a bid to force government action, the FWF has mandated the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to immediately call for an indefinite nationwide strike.
The forum also declared its support for nationwide protests and rallies, while issuing a strict 30-day ultimatum to President Bola Tinubu to tackle insecurity and economic hardship.
As immediate relief measures, the workers are demanding the settlement of all outstanding arrears, the introduction of a Cost of Living Allowance (COLA), and the convocation of a sovereign national conference to address underlying governance failures.
