As inflation and cost of living continue to soar across the country, several state governments have started reviewing their minimum wage structures in line with current economic realities. In a bold and proactive step, the Rivers State Government has approved a new minimum wage of ₦85,000 for civil servants in 2025. This significant wage adjustment has positioned Rivers State as one of the highest-paying states in Nigeria in terms of public sector salary.
This move is more than just a pay raise—it is a statement of the government’s commitment to the welfare of its workforce, as well as a challenge to other states to improve the livelihood of their civil servants. In this detailed blog post, we will explore everything you need to know about the ₦85,000 minimum wage in Rivers State, including its background, scope, economic implications, union reactions, and a comparison with other states.
Background to the New Wage Structure
Before the approval of this new wage, the minimum wage in Rivers State, like many other states in Nigeria, was tied to the national minimum wage of ₦30,000. Although some states had made incremental increases, the salaries of workers were still not reflective of Nigeria’s economic realities. The price of fuel, food, transportation, rent, and even basic utilities had tripled over the years, placing a heavy burden on low-earning civil servants.
Recognizing the need to review this outdated structure, the Rivers State Government under the leadership of Governor Siminalayi Fubara initiated discussions with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and other labour groups. These negotiations, which spanned several months, culminated in the announcement that no civil servant in the state would earn less than ₦85,000 monthly, effective from November 2024.
This announcement was made public by the Head of the Rivers State Civil Service, Dr. George Nwaeke, who also confirmed that full implementation would begin immediately, and all relevant ministries and agencies had been directed to make necessary adjustments.
Who Does This New Wage Cover?
The ₦85,000 minimum wage applies to all workers employed directly by the Rivers State Government. This includes:
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State civil servants on all levels
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Local government employees
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Teachers in government-owned primary and secondary schools
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Staff of parastatals and government agencies
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Non-academic workers in public institutions
The new wage forms the baseline salary, meaning that even the lowest-ranked worker in the state’s public service must not earn below ₦85,000. For those on higher levels, salary adjustments will be made proportionately using the Consolidated Public Service Salary Structure (CONPSS) or its relevant equivalents.
Salary Breakdown and Structure
While the full breakdown has not been released publicly, the new wage floor automatically upgrades the earnings of junior staff (typically on grade levels 01–06) to ₦85,000. For mid-level officers (Grade Levels 07–12) and senior officers (Grade Levels 13 and above), their wages will be recalculated to reflect the percentage increase based on this new benchmark.
Estimated Impact on Wage Tiers:
| Grade Level | Old Salary Estimate (₦) | New Salary Estimate (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| 01 – 06 | 30,000 – 50,000 | 85,000 – 100,000 |
| 07 – 10 | 60,000 – 80,000 | 110,000 – 140,000 |
| 12 – 15 | 100,000 – 130,000 | 160,000 – 200,000 |
This salary adjustment will not only benefit the workers directly but also uplift their families and dependents.
Labour Union Reactions
The decision to raise the minimum wage has been received with open arms by the labour unions in the state. The NLC Rivers State Chairman, Comrade Alex Agwanwor, expressed deep appreciation to the government, stating that the increase was long overdue and a welcome relief for workers who had been struggling to make ends meet.
The Trade Union Congress (TUC) and Joint Public Service Negotiating Council (JPSNC) also hailed the development. According to them, the wage increment reflects the government’s responsiveness and commitment to workers’ welfare.
In a joint statement, labour leaders affirmed their willingness to work with the government to ensure a smooth implementation and also pledged to mobilize civil servants to be more dedicated and productive in their duties.
Implications for the Economy of Rivers State
The introduction of a new minimum wage always has ripple effects—both positive and challenging. In the case of Rivers State, the expected benefits outweigh any potential downsides.
1. Increased Purchasing Power
With ₦85,000 as the new baseline, workers will have more money to spend on goods and services. This will result in a boost in local commerce and microeconomic activities.
2. Better Standard of Living
Many workers who previously struggled to pay school fees, house rent, and hospital bills will now have a better chance at financial stability.
3. Enhanced Productivity
When workers are better paid, they are more motivated and likely to put in their best. This can result in improved efficiency and service delivery in the public sector.
4. Budgetary Challenges
On the flip side, the government will now need to allocate more funds to salaries. To sustain this, the state must improve its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and reduce wastage in other areas.
How Rivers Compares with Other States
The ₦85,000 wage places Rivers State ahead of many others. While some states like Ogun have adopted ₦77,000, and federal discussions are still ongoing to raise the national minimum wage to ₦70,000 or more, Rivers has taken a bold lead.
This could trigger a “wage race” among states, especially in the South-South and South-East regions, where the cost of living is relatively high.
The Role of Private Sector and Enforcement
Although the new wage primarily covers government workers, the Rivers State Government has advised private businesses operating within the state to consider adopting similar standards. To monitor compliance, a Minimum Wage Monitoring Committee is being set up. This committee will have the mandate to:
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Ensure full implementation across all ministries and local government councils
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Receive and address complaints from workers
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Recommend sanctions for employers who fail to comply
This initiative, if properly enforced, will go a long way in protecting workers’ rights and ensuring a more balanced labour environment.
Conclusion
The approval of a ₦85,000 minimum wage for civil servants in Rivers State is a major leap forward in the fight for better working conditions in Nigeria. It reflects a responsive government that is in tune with the realities of its people and is willing to take bold steps to improve their welfare.
However, sustaining this wage structure will require sound economic planning, better revenue collection, and transparency in public financial management. As other states watch closely, Rivers has set a solid benchmark that may soon become the new standard across Nigeria.
For civil servants in Rivers, the future now looks a bit brighter, and the hope is that this momentum will be sustained and extended to other aspects of workers' welfare, including training, healthcare, and pensions.
