FG HAS BEGUN TO PAY SALARY INCREASES

Minister of Labour Chris Ngige

The Federal Government has begun to pay civil servants throughout the country the agreed salary raise.

In March, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, announced that the Federal Government has authorized a salary increase for civil servants.

He stated that the wage increase was included in the 2023 budget and that it will take effect on January 1.

Some public servants in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have praised the Federal Government for paying the 40% unique allowance along with the April salary.

Some of them told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Sunday that the payment was made on time.

Mrs. Agnes Iguben, a civil servant, said she was surprised to find an increase in her April income.

She stated that the money would help her family's requirements during the month.

"I want to commend President Muhammadu Buhari, though I do not know what the increase is about but the government did well for us.

"Some people said it is a 40 per cent sa increase to cushion the effect of the fuel subsidy that will be removed in June.

"Whatever it is, I pray it will continue so that my family can live an improved life," she said.

Another civil servant, Mr Abubakar Idowu, said the development was admirable and appreciated.

Idowu stated that, while he had yet to receive his pay credit notice, he was confident the news article was real.

"God bless PMB. I know even his enemies will pray for him secretly for this.

"This is meant to help government workers to cushion the effects of rising inflation, the rising cost of living, hikes in transportation fare, housing, electricity and the likely removal of fuel subsidy," he said.

Mrs Ngozi Ebe, another civil servant, cautioned colleagues to spend cautiously because the funds were intended to mitigate the impact of the anticipated subsidy elimination.

"In case you received arrears of payments, please do not spend it all, in case fuel subsidy is removed from the month of June," she said.

Another federal official, who chose anonymity, urged the President-elect to continue the payout in order to garner workers' support.

"Most times, outgoing governments will make a law and the new government can change it.

"Most times, outgoing governments will make a law and the new government can change it.

"I pray that this will not be the case with this increment," the worker said.