On Monday, the Federal Government announced plans for a new salary structure in the civil service, focusing on employee productivity. Under this system, workers at the same level may receive varying salaries. The decision to explore this innovative wage system stems from the recognition that productivity significantly influences the country’s economic growth. Nasir Raji-Mustapha, the Director-General of the National Productivity Centre, revealed these developments during a meeting with Labour correspondents.
He mentioned, “We’re currently developing a wage system that rewards productivity, ensuring that hardworking individuals receive recognition regardless of their job level. With this proposed system, employees on the same pay scale may earn different salaries.”
Responding to queries about whether the new productivity-focused wage system had garnered support and feedback from organized labor, the NPC chief emphasized the indispensable role of labor input in such endeavors.
Raji-Mustapha remarked, “Certainly, labor, as a crucial stakeholder, is actively involved in this process. As researchers, we don’t enact initiatives without considering the perspectives of those impacted.”
“When we initiated the project approximately three or four years ago, we organized a stakeholders’ forum, which included participation from labor unions. Furthermore, we formally communicated with the NLC and TUC through a memo, seeking their stance on endorsing the proposed wage system, to which they expressed willingness to support.”
Raji-Mustapha went on to mention that the report for the initial phase of the study had been completed. He explained that the subsequent step would involve engaging various stakeholders to review and provide input before presenting it to the Federal Government for consideration and potential adoption.
Additionally, the NPC chief revealed ongoing collaborations with multiple international agencies and organizations aimed at enhancing the productivity and skills of Nigerian workers, with the ultimate goal of positively impacting the economy.
He specifically noted that the NPC had expanded its collaborative efforts with international agencies, including the International Labour Organisation, Japanese International Cooperation Agency, Africa Productivity Association, and Asia Productivity Association.
Regarding productivity promotion, he highlighted the center’s significant efforts, particularly in advocating for youth engagement. This included initiatives targeting youth corps members at NYSC camps, where the NPC had reinstated activities aimed at promoting productivity.
Furthermore, he revealed that Vice President Kashim Shettima would serve as the keynote speaker at the two-day National Productivity Summit organized by the center, scheduled to take place in Abuja today (Tuesday).
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