The Nigeria Labour Congress, Kaduna State Council, confirmed the commencement during a press briefing, emphasizing that full implementation for all workers must follow without delay. The state NLC Chairman explained that while this is a positive step, gaps remain, particularly at the local government level and in certain sectors.
The chairman stated that the government has begun with Grade Levels 1–6 but stressed that this is only the first phase. He expects the wage adjustment to extend to all workers, including teachers, healthcare workers, and employees in tertiary institutions and parastatals. The government has linked the extension to other categories of workers to an ongoing staff and pension verification exercise, expected to conclude by September 2025.
While acknowledging the need for proper documentation, the NLC urged the government to expedite the process to ensure no worker is left behind. The union also noted the government’s commitment to adopting new salary structures for health workers under CONMESS and CONHESS, aligning with the new minimum wage.
However, the labour leader expressed concern that primary school teachers, local government employees, and primary healthcare workers have yet to benefit from the adjustment. The NLC vowed to continue engaging the government until all workers receive the ₦72,000 minimum wage and consequential adjustments.
The chairman emphasized that workers have endured years of stagnant wages amid rising living costs, calling the new wage a right, not a favor. He assured workers of ongoing dialogue with the government and urged patience while promising relentless advocacy for full implementation.
The NLC also called for fairness and transparency, stating that industrial harmony depends on prompt government action. The union pledged to monitor progress closely and hold the government accountable for its commitments. Additionally, it urged the government to speed up the verification exercise to meet the September 2025 deadline, ensuring all workers receive their rightful pay.