Minister Atiku Bagudu highlights Tinubu government's struggle to meet payroll amid financial scarcity.

The Federal Government is currently grappling with substantial challenges and a noticeable deficit in revenue, all while contending with a burgeoning population. Atiku Bagudu, the Minister of Budget and National Planning, expressed deep concern over the government's financial strain, particularly in meeting salary obligations due to the prevailing scarcity of funds.

Addressing the situation in Abuja on Thursday, Bagudu called upon non-governmental organizations to step in and support the government in areas where it is struggling to provide adequate coverage. He underscored the rapid surge in Nigeria's population, emphasizing that unemployment is on an alarming ascent amidst a backdrop of elevated inflation rates.

Minister Bagudu articulated, "The government is confronted with monumental challenges, especially in the current climate. We are contending with a significant revenue deficit. There is a scarcity of financial resources across the nation, with the government barely managing to meet its salary obligations. The pace of economic growth is lethargic, while the population is experiencing rapid expansion. Concurrently, unemployment is skyrocketing in the midst of a pronounced inflationary environment."

Amidst these unfolding events, it has been reported that Bola Tinubu has given his approval for a new wage of N35,000 for all federal civil servants. This updated pay scale is scheduled to come into effect starting from September 1, 2023. This decision is outlined in an official memorandum released by the Presidency and verified by Ekpo U. O. Nta, who serves as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission.

The circular was specifically directed to key figures including the Chief of Staff to the President, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Ministers and Ministers of State, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Chairmen of Federal Commissions, Federal Permanent Secretaries, Clerk of the National Assembly, Secretary of the National Judicial Council, Secretary of the Federal Judicial Service Commission, Directors-General and Chief Executives of Parastatals, Agencies, and Government-Owned Companies, Auditor-General for the Federation, Accountant-General of the Federation, Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation. This directive, bearing the date of October 19, 2023, signifies a notable development in the realm of federal civil service remuneration.