In a proactive response to the economic challenges faced by civil servants in Kano State following the removal of the fuel subsidy on January 1, 2024, the Kano State Government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC). The agreement outlines a N20,000 palliative to be extended to all state employees.
The MoU ensures that the financial aid will be provided until a comprehensive review of the minimum wage is conducted within the next six months. In addition to state employees, pensioners will receive a monthly palliative of N15,000 for three months, along with arrears for the missed December 2023 allowance.
The successful negotiations and subsequent agreement have averted a nationwide strike threat previously issued by the labour unions to highlight the challenges faced by workers after the removal of the fuel subsidy announced by President Bola Tinubu.
The NLC and TUC expressed their appreciation to the Kano State Government, specifically acknowledging the efforts of the governor’s Special Adviser On Labour, Comrade Baffa Sani Gaya, and other committee members for their swift investigation and report submission to the governor.
Yarima, a representative of the labour unions, emphasized the positive impact of the palliative on affected workers, stating, “We believe this will significantly assist many people and enhance workers’ morale.”
This development marks a significant milestone as it not only addresses the immediate financial concerns of workers but also represents the first salary increment for state and local government workers, complementing the earlier salary increase announced for federal workers by the federal government.
