Senator Kingibe recently urged the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration to resolve wage issues affecting workers. This follows growing unrest among labor unions over delays in implementing the ₦70,000 minimum wage mandated by the national government. FCT Minister Nyesom Wike approved the wage increase in November 2024, including the payment of three months’ arrears to administrative staff. However, tensions remain due to earlier delays and lack of engagement between the administration and labor representatives. She expressed her disgust through her X formerly Twitter account,
I am deeply outraged and appalled by the recent reports of primary school teachers in the FCT being turned back from sitting for their promotional examinations due to issues related to unpaid minimum wage entitlements. This disgraceful development is a glaring indictment of a system that continues to undermine the dignity of our educators and jeopardize the future of our children.
The teachers who nurture the foundational minds of our children deserve respect, timely remuneration, and opportunities for professional growth—not to be humiliated over entitlements that are their lawful rights. It is unacceptable that in the heart of our nation, those entrusted with educating our youngest citizens are subjected to such indignities.
This blatant disregard for teachers’ welfare and rights directly impacts the quality of education in the FCT and threatens the broader socio-economic development of the region. Education is not just a fundamental right but a cornerstone of national progress, and teachers are the custodians of that vision.
I call on the FCT Administration to immediately resolve all outstanding wage issues and ensure that these children are allowed to sit for their examinations without further delay. I will not stand by while the future of our children and the welfare of our teachers are compromised. I demand accountability and justice for these hardworking educators, and I will take this matter to the highest levels to ensure that this injustice is addressed.
Education is non-negotiable, and so is the dignity of our teachers. Enough is enough.
-SenatorIretiKingibe
This development is part of President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” aimed at enhancing workers’ welfare but has faced implementation challenges in some areas, including the FCT.
