The Yobe State chapter of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) has called on Governor Mai Mala Buni to implement the ₦70,000 minimum wage for local government workers.
According to NULGE, seven out of the state’s 17 local councils—accounting for 41%—have been unable to meet the wage benchmark set by President Bola Tinubu. Speaking in Damaturu, NULGE Chairman Baba Shehu Mustapha urged the state government to expedite the wage implementation process.
He noted that while 10 councils could afford the new minimum wage, the remaining seven struggled due to low internally generated revenue (IGR). To address this, NULGE has established a high-powered committee to explore ways to boost revenue and ensure full wage implementation. The union is also engaging with the state government and stakeholders to find lasting solutions.
Pensioners Demand Federal Government to Implement ₦32,000 Pension Increment
Meanwhile, some pensioners have appealed to the Federal Government to implement the ₦32,000 pension increment in line with the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act, 2024.
The retirees lamented that despite the rising cost of living, they continue to receive meager pensions, making it difficult to afford basic necessities like food, medical care, and rent.
Ethelbert Ibeh, spokesperson for the Nigeria Union of Pensioners Contributory Pension Scheme Sector (NUPCPS), urged the government to settle outstanding pension arrears. He emphasized that the law mandates an increment in pensions whenever the minimum wage is raised.
“Before, our pensions were barely enough to survive. Now, with the worsening economy, we still receive the same amount. How do we pay school fees for our children, rent, or medical bills?” Ibeh questioned.
He also highlighted that retirees above 60 years can no longer access health insurance, even though that is when they need it most.
