The Federal Government announced on Monday that it is developing a new wage system for civil service employees based on productivity. This system will allow workers on the same level to earn different salaries depending on their performance.
The Director-General of the National Productivity Centre, Nasir Raji-Mustapha, highlighted that the government recognizes productivity as a key factor in economic growth and is formulating an innovative wage system to reflect this.
“We are in the process of developing a productivity-led wage system that will ensure those who are productive are rewarded for their efforts, irrespective of their grade level. Under the proposed system, employees on the same salary scale can earn different wages,” Raji-Mustapha said during a meeting with Labour correspondents.
When asked if the new wage proposal had the support of organized labour, Raji-Mustapha confirmed that labour unions are actively involved in the process. “Labour, as a critical stakeholder, is being carried along in this exercise. As researchers, we don’t just do things without considering the recipient of the reports,” he explained.
He mentioned that a stakeholders’ forum, including labour unions, was held at the start of the project three to four years ago, and memos were sent to the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to gauge their support. Both unions welcomed the proposal.
Raji-Mustapha added that the first phase of the study is complete, and the next step involves engaging various stakeholders for input before presenting the final proposal to the Federal Government for consideration.
The NPC is also collaborating with international agencies to enhance the productivity and skills of Nigerian workers. This includes partnerships with the International Labour Organisation, Japanese International Cooperation Agency, Africa Productivity Association, and Asia Productivity Association.
Furthermore, the NPC has focused on promoting productivity among youth, particularly through initiatives at NYSC camps.
Vice President Kashim Shettima is set to be the keynote speaker at the two-day National Productivity Summit organized by the NPC, which begins today in Abuja.
