Niger State Organized Labour Addresses Salary Deductions for Civil Servants
By Yahaya Zakka Minna.
The Niger State Organized Labour has expressed significant concern regarding the complaints from civil servants about deductions in their May 2025 salaries.
In a press release issued to the media and signed by Com. Arc. Ibrahim Gana, mnia, Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), the Organized Labour conveyed the following points for clarity:
1. On March 17, 2025, the Niger State Government, through the Office of the Head of Service, issued a circular stating that third-party deductions would resume in May 2025.
2. To clarify, third-party deductions include:
a.Contributory Pension Scheme:The deduction has increased to 10% of the worker’s salary, up from 7.5%. This adjustment is necessary due to a three-year hiatus in contributions.
b. Cooperative Deductions: Payments from civil servants who are participating in cooperatives.
c. Other Financial Commitments:This includes bank loans, union dues, the National Housing Fund (NHF), and statutory PAYE obligations.
3. The Organized Labour believes that the deduction for the contributory pension scheme is in the best interest of workers. It is unreasonable for civil servants enrolled in the scheme to avoid contributions, as this jeopardizes their financial security upon retirement.
4. Before resuming the Contributory Pension Scheme, the Organized Labour engaged in extensive discussions with the government, which resulted in a commitment to implement a 10% contribution from the state to prevent past issues.
5. The Organized Labour will establish a special bureau to monitor the monthly contributions from both employers and employees to ensure transparency and accountability.
6. The Organized Labour will take necessary steps to rectify any anomalies concerning those in the Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS) who have been incorrectly deducted as CPS from the Ministry of Finance.
An action plan will be instituted to address these concerns through constructive engagement with the Ministry of Finance.
7. We assure civil servants of our unwavering commitment to their welfare.
8. We urge all civil servants in Niger State to remain calm and understanding during this time.
9. In advance of the Eid al-Adha celebration, we extend our best wishes to our Muslim brothers and sisters for a joyful observance.
SIGNED :
Com. Arc. Ibrahim Gana, mnia
TUC Chairman
Niger State Organized Labour
