The selective payment and delay in implementing the new N70,000 minimum wage for federal civil servants is another example of how the Nigerian government erodes public trust.

Development Diaries reports that some staff of ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) have noted that they have yet to see any addition to their salaries.

According to media reports, while the office of the Accountant-General said the new minimum wage was effected along with September salary, the Budget Office said N40,000 was paid across the board to all federal workers but workers are denying this.

While some workers report receiving a flat N40,000 increase in their September salaries, others claim to have received nothing at all.

To start with, the discrepancy in information is a problem. This selective payment approach raises questions about the government’s commitment to easing the suffering of its workforce.

The fact that months have passed since the minimum wage was signed into law, yet there remains confusion and delays in its application.

It is quite unfortunate that this development comes at a time when rising fuel prices, electricity tariffs, and the high cost of living have severely strained workers’ ability to meet their daily needs.

The situation is made worse by the fact that many workers are resorting to desperate measures, such as sleeping in their offices or skipping meals, just to survive.

When the government commits to measures meant to alleviate hardship but fails to follow through effectively, it creates a credibility problem.

Also, the lack of transparency around the payment process fuels suspicions that the government is not genuinely concerned with workers’ welfare.

Development Diaries calls on the Budget Office and the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation to be transparent about the implementation and the payment of workers’ minimum wage.

Photo source: Own work