The Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) has issued a strong warning to state governments that fail to implement the newly mandated ₦70,000 national minimum wage, signaling potential disruptions to state activities if compliance is not achieved. The ultimatum was announced by Shehu Muhammed, the newly elected ASCSN President, during the association’s 5th Quadrennial Delegates Conference held in Lagos.
Muhammed emphasized that there is no excuse for state governments to delay the implementation, especially in light of increased revenue from the Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) following the removal of the fuel subsidy. He asserted, “For states not ready to implement the new minimum wage, let me tell you categorically, it is impossible. We are coming for them.”
The ASCSN leadership has urged state governments to prioritize the wage increase to enhance the living standards of their citizens. Muhammed advised states to focus on reducing waste and curbing financial leakages, as well as indexing income to inflation rates to ensure that the wage increase meets the needs of workers effectively.
Joshua Apebo, the ASCSN Secretary General, supported the call for immediate action, stressing that the improved FAAC allocation should facilitate the wage increase and improve the quality of life for workers.
In solidarity, Festus Osifo, President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), endorsed ASCSN’s position, encouraging the new leadership to prioritize worker welfare and the union’s goals.
The ASCSN’s firm stance reflects a broader push by organized labor to ensure fair compensation and improved conditions for civil servants across Nigeria.