In 2025, the government of Gombe State made a decisive move to improve the economic well-being of its civil servants by revising and implementing a new minimum wage structure. This was not just a routine salary adjustment, but a strategic policy change influenced by the economic realities faced by Nigerian workers, especially those in the public sector.
For years, civil servants in Gombe State, like their counterparts in other parts of the country, have had to deal with a range of financial challenges. Rising inflation, increased cost of living, and the depreciating value of the naira placed a heavy burden on their already stretched incomes. Recognizing this and responding to broader national developments, the Gombe State government took meaningful action in line with federal policies and labor demands.
The Push for a New Minimum Wage
The journey toward a new wage began at the national level, where trade unions and labor organizations continuously lobbied the federal government for a wage review. These efforts culminated in the announcement of a new national minimum wage of ₦70,000 in mid-2024. This significant increase from the previous ₦30,000 threshold was intended to reflect the cost of living and help workers across the country live more comfortably.
For state governments, this development served as a wake-up call. They were expected to assess their financial standing and implement a similar wage scale tailored to their local realities. In response, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State directed his administration to set up a wage review committee to examine the feasibility of adjusting the state’s wage structure.
Implementation of the ₦71,451 Minimum Wage
After careful review and negotiations with labor unions, Gombe State announced the implementation of a new minimum wage of ₦71,451.15 for its civil servants in October 2024. This decision placed Gombe among the first states to not only meet but exceed the national minimum wage standard. This was met with applause from state workers and labor unions, who had long demanded better remuneration.
The wage structure was adjusted accordingly across all grade levels in the state’s civil service. The new pay scheme covered all ministries, departments, and agencies, offering financial relief to thousands of workers.
Revised Salary Structure for Gombe Civil Servants
Gombe State civil service follows a grade-level system, ranging from GL 01 to GL 17. Each grade reflects an employee’s responsibilities, qualifications, and experience. The revised structure is as follows:
| Grade Level | Estimated Monthly Salary (₦) |
|---|---|
| GL 01 | 80,000 |
| GL 02 | 95,000 |
| GL 03 | 110,000 |
| GL 04 | 125,000 |
| GL 05 | 145,000 |
| GL 06 | 170,000 |
| GL 07 | 200,000 |
| GL 08 | 230,000 |
| GL 09 | 270,000 |
| GL 10 | 310,000 |
| GL 12 | 360,000 |
| GL 13 | 410,000 |
| GL 14 | 470,000 |
| GL 15 | 530,000 |
| GL 16 | 590,000 |
| GL 17 | 650,000 – 700,000 |
These figures represent the basic monthly pay exclusive of allowances and bonuses, which further improve the take-home packages of civil servants.
Allowances and Welfare Benefits
In addition to their base salaries, civil servants in Gombe State are entitled to several allowances designed to improve their quality of life. These include:
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Housing Allowance: This helps workers manage rent and housing costs, which have soared in recent years.
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Transport Allowance: Given the state’s geographic spread and transportation challenges, this helps employees commute to and from work.
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Medical Allowance: Covers part of the health care expenses for workers and sometimes their immediate families.
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Leave Allowance: Paid when a worker proceeds on their annual leave, this acts as a vacation bonus.
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Hazard Allowance: Given to workers exposed to occupational risks, especially those in health, security, and environmental sectors.
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Responsibility Allowance: Offered to civil servants holding supervisory or management positions, recognizing their leadership duties.
With these allowances factored in, the total compensation package for Gombe civil servants becomes significantly more competitive, improving worker motivation and retention.
Pension Scheme Reform and Arrears
A major concern for civil servants—particularly those nearing retirement—is the prompt payment of pensions and gratuities. In Gombe, the government has adopted the Contributory Pension Scheme to ensure sustainability and transparency. Under this system, both employees and the state contribute to a retirement fund that guarantees pension benefits upon retirement.
In 2025, the government committed to clearing pension arrears and implementing phased payments for retirees. This was a welcomed move, especially for former civil servants who had been waiting for years to receive their benefits. Additionally, there have been calls to review the pension rates in line with the new minimum wage, to prevent retirees from being financially marginalized.
The Local Government Worker Challenge
Despite the progress made at the state level, local government workers have expressed concerns over being left behind. Many of them still earn salaries based on the outdated ₦30,000 minimum wage structure. During the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration in Gombe, the state’s chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) publicly urged the government to extend the new minimum wage to local government employees.
They also requested the approval of outstanding promotions and other benefits to bring parity between local and state-level civil servants. Governor Yahaya’s administration acknowledged these concerns and indicated that it was reviewing the financial implications of implementing similar wage adjustments across all 11 local government areas in Gombe.
Government's Commitment to Workers’ Welfare
Throughout his administration, Governor Inuwa Yahaya has made it clear that workers are central to the state’s development. He emphasized that the motivation and commitment of civil servants have a direct impact on policy implementation and public service delivery. Therefore, improving their welfare is not just a financial obligation but a moral and strategic one.
In addition to the wage review, the government has also introduced training programs, improved working conditions, and ensured timely salary payments—factors that contribute to a productive and loyal workforce.
Final Thoughts
The minimum wage increase for Gombe State civil servants in 2025 marks a significant achievement in labor policy. It reflects not only the government’s responsiveness to economic conditions but also a deep understanding of the role civil servants play in the development of the state. With competitive salaries, additional allowances, and pension reforms in place, civil servants in Gombe State are better positioned to meet their personal needs and perform their duties effectively.
However, it is important that the state government continues to engage stakeholders, especially local government workers and labor unions, to ensure that the benefits of the wage reform reach every corner of the public sector. A well-compensated workforce is not just an economic asset—it is the engine that drives progress and governance.
