Federal Government Workers on Enhanced Consolidated Salary Structure; Pensioners Receive Pay Rise

Federal government has approved a substantial salary increase for civil servants on the remaining six Consolidated Salary Structures. According to Emmanuel Njoku, the Head of Press at the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC), the increment ranges between 25 percent and 35 percent.
The affected salary structures include the Consolidated Public Service Salary Structure (CONPSS), Consolidated Research and Allied Institutions Salary Structure (CONRAISS), Consolidated Police Salary Structure (CONPOSS), Consolidated Para-military Salary Structure (CONPASS), Consolidated Intelligence Community Salary Structure (CONICCS), and Consolidated Armed Forces Salary Structure (CONAFSS). This salary adjustment will take effect from January 1, 2024.

Pension Boost for Defined Benefits Scheme Beneficiaries

In addition to the salary increase for civil servants, the Federal Government has also approved an increase in pension benefits for retirees under the Defined Benefits Scheme. Pensioners on the aforementioned six consolidated salary structures will receive a pension hike ranging from 20 percent to 28 percent, effective from January 1, 2024.
This move is in line with Section 173(3) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which mandates the periodic review of salaries and pensions to maintain their real value.

Previous Salary Adjustments in Tertiary and Health Sectors

Njoku highlighted that workers in the Tertiary Education and Health Sectors had previously received their salary increases. This included the Consolidated University Academic Salary Structure (CONUASS), Consolidated Tertiary Institutions Salary Structure (CONTISS) for universities, Consolidated Polytechnics and Colleges of Education Academic Staff Salary Structure (CONPCASS), and Consolidated Tertiary Educational Institutions Salary Structure (CONTEDISS) for polytechnics and colleges of education.

The Health Sector also benefited from the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and Consolidated Health Sector Salary Structure (CONHESS).
The salary and pension adjustments aim to improve the standard of living for civil servants and pensioners, reflecting the federal government’s commitment to their welfare and recognition of their contributions to the nation.

Federal Government’s Salary Increment: A Step Towards Harmonization

The federal government’s decision to increase salaries has sparked diverse reactions across the country. Harmonization of salaries and wages has been the proverbial ‘elephant in the room’ that needed to be addressed. The vast disparity in earnings across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) has long been a contentious issue, leading to dissatisfaction and perceived inequalities.

This salary increment is not about implementing a minimum wage, as some might misconceive. Instead, it aims to harmonize the salaries of specific civil servants, such as those in the police force, who have been receiving higher salaries than their counterparts in agencies like the Department of State Services (DSS) or the Nigeria Immigration Service. Once the increments are implemented, these agencies would receive the same salary scale, ensuring fairness and parity across the civil service.

A Call for Gratitude and Constructive Criticism

Fellow Nigerians, it is crucial to acknowledge and appreciate the positive steps taken by the Federal government, even if they come from an unexpected source. This current federal government administration has demonstrated a commitment to addressing long-standing issues and improving the lives of civil servants. While progress may be gradual, it is essential to recognize and support these efforts through constructive and positive criticism.

The harmonization of salaries and wages is a complex undertaking, and it is imperative to approach it with open minds and a spirit of cooperation. By working together and providing constructive feedback, we can ensure that the implementation process is fair, transparent, and beneficial to all involved.
It is time to put aside divisive rhetoric and unite in our efforts to build a stronger, more equitable nation. Let us embrace the federal government’s initiatives, offer constructive criticism when necessary, and work hand in hand to create a civil service that is not only well-compensated but also efficient, accountable, and dedicated to serving the people of Nigeria.