The Kaduna State Government has begun implementing the new ₦72,000 minimum wage, starting with civil servants on Grade Levels 1 to 6.
The Nigeria Labor Congress (NLC), Kaduna State Council, confirmed the development during a press briefing on Thursday, describing it as a welcome first step — but called for immediate extension to all workers.
“The government has started with Grade Levels 1–6, but we want to make it clear that this is only the first phase,” said State NLC Chairman, Comrade Ayuba Suleiman. “We expect the implementation to cover all categories of workers, including teachers, healthcare workers, and employees in tertiary institutions and parastatals.”
The government has linked the full rollout to an ongoing staff and pension verification exercise expected to conclude by the end of September.
“While we understand the need for proper documentation, we want the government to fast-track the process so that no category of worker is left behind,” Suleiman said.
He welcomed the plan to revise healthcare salary structures in line with the new wage but expressed concern that local government staff, primary school teachers, and healthcare workers are yet to benefit.
“Our people have suffered enough. Inflation has eroded salaries, and families are struggling to survive. The ₦72,000 minimum wage is not a favor; it is a right,” he added.
Talks between the NLC and the state government are ongoing. Suleiman urged transparency, warning that industrial peace depends on timely and fair implementation.
“We expect the government to do the right thing,” he said.
