The Federal Workers Forum (FWF) has urged the Federal Government to immediately settle outstanding salary-related obligations and approve a new salary structure that sets the national minimum wage at ₦300,000 and the maximum salary at ₦1.5 million for officers on Grade Level 17.
In a statement issued on Monday in Abuja, the Forum’s National Coordinator, Andrew Emelieze, said the proposed salary review had become imperative in view of prevailing economic conditions and the rising cost of living.
“We reiterate our recommendation for a minimum wage of ₦300,000 and a maximum wage of ₦1.5 million for officers on Grade Level 17. We await an immediate response from President Bola Tinubu,” he said.
Emelieze also called on President Bola Tinubu to direct an immediate review of federal workers’ salaries, arguing that existing remuneration is no longer sufficient to meet employees’ basic needs.
The Forum further demanded the prompt payment of several outstanding entitlements, including the two-month wage award outstanding since June 2024, arrears of the 40 per cent peculiar allowance, and unpaid balances arising from the implementation of the current ₦70,000 national minimum wage.
“We remind the Federal Government of its outstanding obligations to federal workers, including the two-month wage award, peculiar allowance arrears, and the full implementation of the ₦70,000 minimum wage,” Emelieze said.
Beyond salary issues, Emelieze raised concerns over the welfare of personnel in Nigeria’s correctional centres.
He alleged that many correctional officers purchase their uniforms, boots, belts, and rank badges with personal funds. He further claimed that officers are compelled to pay money to cater for examiners during promotion examinations, alleging that similar practices also occur within the Federal Fire Service.
“We call for an independent investigation into allegations of extortion during promotion exercises and demand better welfare for correctional officers and other paramilitary personnel,” he said.
