The Federal Government’s recent implementation of the new N70,000 minimum wage has sparked widespread discontent among federal public workers due to selective payment practices. While some workers in the core civil service have reported receiving additional amounts in their salaries, many others, particularly those in federal universities and various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), have yet to see any changes.

The selective payment has led to accusations of insensitivity and discrimination by the government. A staff member from an MDA, who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed frustration: “We are fed up with the whole system. It is bad enough that the government removed fuel subsidy and inflicted unbearable suffering and hardship, including hunger on workers and other Nigerians across the country. It is even worse that the minimum wage that has been signed into law for months has not been implemented uniformly.”

The controversy stems from conflicting reports from government offices. The Accountant-General’s office claimed that the new minimum wage was included in the September salary, while the Budget Office stated that a flat rate of N40,000 was paid to all federal workers¹. However, many workers have denied receiving this amount, further fueling the discontent.

The President of the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT), Ibeji Nwokoma, highlighted the severe impact of the delay on his members, noting that many have resorted to extreme measures to cope with the financial strain. “Many of us now starve or indulge in self-imposed fasts to cope with the situation. We cannot meet responsibilities to our immediate and extended families. Our children have not resumed school as we have no money to pay their fees and other necessities,” he said.

The selective payment has not only exacerbated the financial difficulties faced by federal workers but also eroded trust in the government’s commitment to alleviating the economic hardships experienced by its citizens. As the situation unfolds, the affected workers continue to call for a fair and transparent implementation of the new minimum wage across all sectors.