Jobs/Appointments
Federal, State Governments Should Not Suffocate Nigerian Workers—CNPP
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The federal and the state governments have been cautioned against frustrating Nigerian workers, who the Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) said deserve a living wage.
The group, in a statement signed by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Mr James Ezema, advised the workers not to settle for less as they deserve better.
There had been talks between the organised labour unions comprising the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) on a new national minimum wage.
The current value is N30,000 per month, but the workers want about N494,000 due to the current economic crisis in the country. The government last proposed N60,000 which has been rejected and talks have again resumed to conclude, possibly later today, Friday, June 7, 2024.
The umbrella body of all registered political parties and political associations in the country in the statement said it stands resolute in its commitment to championing the rights and welfare of the Nigerian workers, irrespective of political views or other affiliations.
“In light of the prevailing economic situation, we firmly insist that our hardworking citizens deserve a national living wage that reflects their contributions to the nation’s growth and the realities of our time,” the organisation stated.
Giving a reason for a national living wage, the CNPP said, “Nigeria faces significant economic challenges, including inflation, rising costs of living, and the removal of petrol subsidies. These factors disproportionately affect workers who struggle to make ends meet.
“We believe in the resilience and dedication of Nigerian workers and, as the backbone of our nation, their well-being directly impacts our collective progress.
“A national living wage ensures that workers can afford necessities, support their families, and contribute effectively to the economy. A poorly paid worker given the high cost of living in the country will most likely be a corrupt civil servant or employee.”
The CNPP called on both parties in the ongoing negotiations to expedite action to reach a position quickly, saying “We urge the Federal Government of Nigeria and the labour unions to expedite negotiations on a new minimum wage threshold. Empty promises won’t suffice; concrete actions are needed to avoid another circle of industrial action over unpaid salaries and pensions.”
“We urge Nigerian workers to unite in their demands, trust in your collective strength, not just in the unions, to be architects of their destiny.
“While we recognize the economic challenges, we implore both parties to seek a middle ground that would be just and fair,” it added.
Speaking on strategic reforms in reducing the cost of governance in Nigeria, the CNPP observed that the “cost of governance is a very pressing issue in Nigeria that requires urgent strategic reforms.”
“The federal and state governments should not suffocate the civil service by denying it fair wage but continue to increase the pay and remunerations of federal/state executives as well as that of the parliaments, both at the state level and at the national level.
“To reduce the cost of governance and save money for the salaries of Nigeria workers, the executives at all levels prioritise development-oriented policies and investments. This ensures that government spending directly contributes to growth and well-being.
“They should implement performance-linked wages to motivate public servants and limit the number of advisers and assistants to political office holders as well as reduce the size of cabinets at both federal and state levels.
“To eliminate low-priority expenditure, the executives should conduct rigorous cost-benefit analyses for all projects, reject bills seeking to create new government agencies unless they are essential and promote digital technology like the use of e-accounting and e-auditing systems to prevent unauthorised spending and leverage technology for efficient public service delivery.
“Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) should be streamlined to eliminate duplications and redundancies and reduce bureaucracy by merging or reorganizing MDAs for more productivity.
“By implementing these measures, Nigeria can strike a balance between effective governance and prudent spending.
“The CNPP emphasises that Nigerian workers are not mere statistics; they are the heartbeat of our nation. Let us ensure they receive a living wage that reflects their worth.
“CNPP remains committed to advocating for a fairer, more prosperous Nigeria for the good of the masses. Together, we can build a nation where every worker thrives,” the group noted.
By Aduragbemi Omiyale
The board of Fortis Global Insurance Plc has been strengthened with two new additions, with Mr Umar Faruk Umar appointed as an independent non-executive director and Mr Ufuoma Ibru as a non-executive director.
A statement signed by the company secretary, Ms Halima Jimada, disclosed that the appointments followed the approval of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), an agency that regulates the insurance sector in Nigeria.
The board expressed optimism that the new directors will bring their wealth of experience to bear in driving the growth and expansion of the business, and that the company will be further strengthened by their valuable contributions.
Mr Umar is an accomplished educationist, public servant and corporate director with over 40 years of professional experience, including over 30 years of board and corporate governance experience.
He holds a PhD in Educational Psychology from the University of Wisconsin, USA. He has also undertaken executive education and corporate governance programmes at Harvard University, Stanford University and INSEAD.
He has held senior positions in the public and private sectors and previously served on the boards of Ashaka Cement Plc, CCNN Plc and NAHCO Plc, where he chaired and served on various board committees, including Audit, Risk Management, Governance, Finance and Establishment.
He currently serves on the Boards of GTL Registrars Limited and the Nigerian Capital Market Development Fund. His extensive experience in corporate governance, risk management, finance and strategic oversight will bring significant value to the Board in his capacity as an independent non-executive director.
On his part, Mr Ibru is a legal practitioner and an experienced non-executive director with extensive professional and board experience in the hospitality, tourism and financial services sectors. He has served on the boards of Ikeja Hotel Plc, The Tourist Company of Nigeria Plc and Icon Stockbrokers Limited.
He holds a Bachelor of Law from the University of Oxford, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2003. He also holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronic Engineering from the University of London.
Mr Ibru has significant experience in corporate governance, strategic management, legal and regulatory matters, investment transactions and stakeholder engagement.
He brings to the board a strong combination of legal, commercial and corporate governance expertise, which will support the effective discharge of his responsibilities as a non-executive director.
By Adedapo Adesanya
Heirs Life Assurance, a specialist life insurance company owned by Nigerian business mogul, Mr Tony Elumelu, has appointed Pastor Jerry Eze as an Independent Non-Executive Director on its Board, effective August 10, 2026.
The appointment reinforces Heirs Life Assurance’s commitment to expanding financial inclusion and accelerating insurance adoption by strengthening public trust, consumer education, and long-term financial resilience across Nigeria.
Nigeria, despite being Africa’s largest economy, continues to record insurance penetration of less than one per cent, ranking among the lowest globally and underscoring the need to deepen financial protection and strengthen public confidence in insurance. As Heirs Life advances its goal of making insurance more accessible to Nigerians, the appointment of the preacher is expected to bring valuable insight in community engagement, values-driven leadership and initiatives with wider social impact.
Pastor Jerry Eze is the Founder and Lead Pastor of Streams of Joy International Ministry, a growing multinational ministry with 34 branches across West Africa, Southern Africa, Europe and North America. He is also the convener of the New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declaration (NSPPD), one of the world’s largest digital prayer platforms, reaching millions of people daily. Through his ministry and humanitarian initiatives, he is regarded as one of Africa’s most influential voices, championing hope, compassion, and community transformation.
Beyond ministry, the clergyman is the Founder of the Jerry Eze Foundation, a faith-led philanthropy where he provides housing support and grants to vulnerable and underserved communities.
In 2026, he announced N1 billion in grants to support young entrepreneurs across agriculture, technology, and manufacturing, further advancing enterprise development and economic opportunity.
Before entering full-time ministry, Pastor Jerry Eze built a career in development communications, serving as a Communications Specialist on a World Bank HIV/AIDS programme and with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). He holds a Bachelor’s degree in History and International Relations from Abia State University and a postgraduate degree in Business Administration from Enugu State University of Science and Technology.
Speaking about the appointment, Mr Elumelu, Chairman, Heirs Life Assurance, said, “Pastor Jerry brings an exceptional combination of integrity, influence, and a deep understanding of people and communities. As we continue our mission to democratise access to insurance, his insight will help strengthen consumer trust, deepen financial inclusion, and reinforce our commitment to protecting the financial future of millions of Nigerians. We are delighted to welcome him to the Board of Heirs Life Assurance and the broader family of Heirs Insurance Group.”
Commenting on his appointment, Pastor Jerry Eze said, “I am honoured to join the Board of Heirs Life Assurance at a defining moment for the insurance industry. Financial security empowers individuals, families, and businesses to pursue their aspirations with greater confidence and resilience. I look forward to working with the Board and Management to advance the company’s mission of making insurance more accessible, relevant, and impactful for every Nigerian.”
By Aduragbemi Omiyale
The conclusion of the 2025 Performance Appraisal Exercise of Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) has resulted in the promotion and step increments of about 1,126 employees of the organisation.
The reward for performance involved the promotion of 547 employees and 579 step increments, reaffirming the company’s unwavering commitment to recognising excellence, rewarding performance and building one of Africa’s most admired workplaces.
AEDC disclosed that these actions reflect its deliberate investment in its people as the energy firm accelerates its transformation into a customer-centric, high-performing electricity distribution company with global standards and Pan-African aspirations.
The promotions and step increments, approved by the management, recognise employees who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, professionalism and outstanding performance in advancing AEDC’s strategic objectives.
However, employees who were not successful in the current appraisal cycle have been urged to remain committed, emphasising that the performance management process is designed to support continuous growth, capability development and future advancement opportunities.
“Our people remain our greatest asset and the foundation upon which AEDC’s future will be built. Today’s announcement is more than a reward for performance; it is a reaffirmation of our belief that excellence should always be recognised, talent should be nurtured and hard work should create opportunities for growth.
“As we continue our transformation journey, we are building an organisation where our employees can develop rewarding careers, realise their full potential and proudly contribute to creating one of Africa’s leading electricity distribution companies,” the chief executive of AEDC, Mr Chijioke Okwuokenye, stated.
He added that AEDC is intentionally creating a workplace where merit, continuous learning, innovation and collaboration drive career progression, while employee wellbeing remains central to its long-term strategy.
