Katsina workers to get N70,000 minimum wage from December

Katsina State Government said it will commence payment of N70,000 minimum wage to civil servants in December.

This was announced by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Abdullahi Faskari, at a press briefing in the early hours of Saturday.

The announcement followed intense negotiations Friday between state government representatives as well as officials of the labour unions, which lasted for more than nine hours.

It was gathered that the negotiation focused on reconciling workers’ demands with the government’s financial capacity, ensuring that the new wage policy is sustainable while addressing economic realities faced by the workforce.

The negotiation has also averted a looming strike by the labour unions, which was reported to commence Monday, December 2, in states that have not commenced implementation of the new minimum wage for its workers.

While acknowledging the financial implications of the implementation of the new minimum wage, the SSG assured that the government had thoroughly assessed its fiscal position and was confident in its ability to implement the new wage structure without compromising other developmental projects or essential services.

He noted that plans were underway to streamline the payroll system for a smooth transition and prompt payment of the adjusted salaries.

He described the new wage agreement as a testament to Governor Dikko Radda’s administration’s dedication to prioritizing the needs of civil servants and fostering harmonious labour relations.

Speaking, the state chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Hussaini Hamisu expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the negotiations, commending the government for its willingness to engage in constructive dialogue and respond to the demands of workers in the state.