In 2025, the government of Kebbi State took a bold and commendable step towards improving the standard of living for its civil servants by approving a new minimum wage of ₦75,000. This development came as a direct response to the increasing economic pressures caused by inflation, rising costs of living, and the national review of workers’ remuneration. With this move, Kebbi State has joined a growing list of Nigerian states actively working to enhance the livelihoods of their public sector workforce.
This article explores in detail the structure of the new minimum wage, its implications for different levels of government workers in Kebbi State, additional allowances and benefits associated with the wage increase, and the broader socio-economic impact on the state’s economy.
The Policy Shift: From ₦30,000 to ₦75,000
Prior to this wage adjustment, the official minimum wage in Kebbi State, as in most parts of Nigeria, was ₦30,000 — a figure adopted after the National Minimum Wage Act of 2019. However, due to mounting pressure from labor unions and the increasing financial burden on civil servants, the need for a wage review became inevitable.
In 2024, the Federal Government of Nigeria announced an increase in the national minimum wage to ₦72,000. Kebbi State, under the leadership of Governor Nasir Idris, responded swiftly by setting its own new minimum wage at ₦75,000 — slightly higher than the federal benchmark. The goal was not only to align with national reforms but to show commitment to worker welfare and to improve morale in the state civil service.
Implementation of the ₦75,000 Minimum Wage
One of the most notable aspects of Kebbi State’s wage reform is the speed and clarity of its implementation. Governor Idris directed that the new wage be paid to all eligible state and local government workers starting in October 2024, with actual disbursement taking place within 72 hours of the announcement.
The new salary structure affects workers from the lowest grade levels (GL 01) up to senior civil servants in the highest cadre (GL 17). With this new wage structure, not only are junior staff adequately compensated, but middle and senior-level workers also benefit from proportional salary adjustments.
Breakdown of the New Salary Structure by Grade Level
Here’s how the new salary distribution typically plays out across various grade levels:
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Grade Level 01 – 03: ₦75,000 – ₦90,000
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Grade Level 04 – 06: ₦95,000 – ₦120,000
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Grade Level 07 – 09: ₦130,000 – ₦160,000
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Grade Level 10 – 14: ₦170,000 – ₦210,000
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Grade Level 15 – 17: ₦220,000 – ₦250,000
This scale ensures a significant uplift from previous earnings, especially for those on lower cadres who had long struggled to make ends meet on the old ₦30,000 benchmark.
Allowances and Fringe Benefits
In addition to base salaries, the Kebbi State government also ensures that civil servants receive various allowances. These additional benefits are vital for maintaining workforce motivation and covering extra expenditures that regular wages may not address. The following allowances apply:
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Housing Allowance: To support civil servants in securing affordable accommodation.
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Transport Allowance: For daily commute and travel-related expenses.
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Medical Allowance: To cover part of the healthcare costs for workers and their families.
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Leave Allowance: Offered during annual leave to support relaxation and travel.
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Hazard Allowance: Paid to employees working in risky environments, such as healthcare and security.
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Uniform Allowance: For staff whose roles require specific dress codes or uniforms.
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Duty Tour Allowance (DTA): For official assignments outside the primary duty post.
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Training Allowance: To encourage skill development and capacity building.
With these perks, the total remuneration package for many workers far exceeds the ₦75,000 base salary, contributing significantly to job satisfaction and retention.
Promotions, Career Development, and Capacity Building
A robust wage policy is often ineffective without a complementary system for professional development. The Kebbi State government has acknowledged this by prioritizing promotions and conversions for deserving staff. As of early 2025, civil servants who sat for the 2024 promotion exams have started receiving their letters of elevation.
The government also funds periodic training programs aimed at building the technical and administrative capacity of public sector employees. This holistic approach ensures that salary increments are matched with productivity enhancements, ultimately benefiting the entire civil service ecosystem.
Pension Contributions and Retirement Security
To secure the financial future of civil servants, Kebbi State runs a contributory pension scheme. This system mandates monthly contributions from both the employer and employee to ensure that workers retire with adequate savings.
Moreover, Governor Idris has made pension reform a key priority. The government has started paying off outstanding pension arrears in phases and is committed to clearing the backlog by the end of 2025. Retired workers can now expect timelier disbursements and fewer bureaucratic delays in accessing their benefits.
Economic and Social Impact
The ripple effects of this minimum wage reform are substantial. With an increased disposable income, civil servants are now able to afford better housing, healthcare, and education. Local businesses also stand to gain, as increased spending drives demand for goods and services across Kebbi State.
Additionally, the higher minimum wage helps reduce poverty and economic inequality. It empowers low- and middle-income earners, which in turn fosters a sense of inclusivity and social cohesion. From a governance perspective, this policy boosts public trust and sets a precedent for transparent and people-centered leadership.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While the new minimum wage policy has been widely praised, its implementation is not without challenges. Critics have raised concerns about sustainability, especially if federal allocations or internally generated revenue (IGR) decline. However, the Kebbi State government insists it has put in place strategic fiscal measures to support the new wage structure.
These include increased efforts in revenue generation, reducing wasteful spending, and enforcing stricter budget discipline. As long as these policies are upheld, the state should be able to maintain its wage obligations without compromising other development priorities.
Final Thoughts
The ₦75,000 minimum wage introduced in Kebbi State in 2025 is more than just a financial policy; it’s a statement of intent. It signals a commitment to fairness, productivity, and human development. With this initiative, Kebbi sets an example for other states to follow, showing that investing in human capital is essential for long-term prosperity.
Civil servants are not just beneficiaries of this wage increase—they are now empowered partners in the state’s development journey. By ensuring that public workers are well-compensated, trained, and motivated, Kebbi State is building the foundation for a resilient and responsive civil service.
