Index to Nigerian Newspapers

Federal civil servants are urging the Federal Government to promptly clear three months of arrears from the N35,000 wage award due to the rising cost of living. This wage award, negotiated in 2023 as a temporary relief amidst economic reforms, has faced delays despite partial payments. Workers express frustration over the slow disbursement, fearing government insincerity. Calls for immediate action have been made by representatives from the Nigerian Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress, emphasizing the need for timely payments to alleviate financial difficulties and maintain trust in government commitments. The government has committed to continuing payments but indicated that they will be made in tranches based on fund availability. Civil servants stress that completing the wage payments is vital for their morale and financial stability.

The Federal Government has proposed a 40% salary increase for lecturers in the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) as the union prepares for negotiations with a government delegation led by Yayale Ahmed. This decision follows a consensus reached during a National Executive Council meeting in Abuja. Branch leaders will inform members about the ongoing negotiations, which will resume next week. ASUU's ultimatum to the government recently expired, raising concerns of a strike due to unresolved issues, including unpaid salaries and the university revitalization fund. The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, asserts that the government has addressed ASUU's demands and is working to prevent strikes, while the Nigeria Labour Congress supports ASUU in advocating for its rights if negotiations falter.