Good morning Nigeria. Welcome to Emmynet24 News roundup of top newspaper headlines in Nigeria for today, Wednesday, 1st May 2024:
1. Tinubu Administration Approves Salary Increase For Civil Servants
The Federal Government under the leadership of President Tinubu has sanctioned a salary raise ranging from 25% to 35% for Civil Servants across six Consolidated Salary Structures. The increment, effective from January 1st, 2024, was confirmed by Emmanuel Njoku, the Head of Press at the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission (NSIWC).
Additionally, pensioners on the Defined Benefits Scheme within the mentioned salary structures will enjoy a 20% to 28% increase in their pensions, also effective from January 1st, 2024.
2. Workers Day: Federal Government Declares Public Holiday
The Federal Government has declared Wednesday, 1st May 2024, a public holiday to commemorate Workers’ Day. The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, emphasizing the government's commitment to fostering innovation, productivity, and inclusivity in workplaces.
3. President Tinubu Expresses Condolences Over Ogun State Gas Explosion
President Bola Tinubu has extended his sympathies to those affected by the recent gas explosion accident in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The President's support was conveyed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, assuring affected individuals of government assistance during this difficult time.
4. Senate Witnesses Disorder as Lawmakers Clash Over Seating Arrangement
A tumultuous session erupted in the Senate as lawmakers engaged in a dispute over seating arrangements in the newly renovated chamber. The disagreement ensued between Senators Danjuma Goje and Sahabi Yau, who voiced discontent over their assigned seats. The altercation led to a closed session being called by Majority Leader Opeyemi Bamidele.
5. House Of Reps Halts Electricity Tariff Increase
The House of Representatives has directed the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to halt the implementation of a new electricity tariff for Band A customers. This resolution, passed during a plenary session, responds to public concerns regarding the proposed tariff hike.
6. Oil Marketers Threaten Service Withdrawal Over ₦200 Billion Debt
The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has threatened to disrupt the supply of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) due to the non-payment of ₦200 billion in bridging claims. The association, citing worsening fuel scarcity, issued the ultimatum amid claims of unpaid debts by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NMDPRA).
7. Atiku Criticizes Government's Treatment of Workers
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticized the government's handling of workers' rights, asserting that no administration has disregarded these rights as much as President Tinubu's government. In his International Workers Day message, Atiku highlighted the challenges faced by workers and called for greater government attention to their welfare.
8. Peter Obi Condemns Lagos-Calabar Highway Demolitions
Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate Peter Obi has condemned the Federal Government's demolition of businesses and residences for the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project. Obi labeled the demolitions as insensitive, emphasizing the loss of investments and jobs due to the project.
9. NNPC Provides Timeline for End of Petrol Scarcity
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd has assured that fuel scarcity and queues across the country will be resolved by Wednesday, April 31. Chief Communications Officer Olufemi Soneye confirmed the availability of over 1.5 billion litres of petroleum products, sufficient for at least 30 days.
10. FG Launches Port Harcourt-Aba Train Service
The Federal Government has commenced commercial train operations on the Port Harcourt-Aba rail line, facilitating trade and connectivity between southern and northeastern Nigeria. The inauguration, overseen by Minister of Transportation Senator Said Alkali, underscores the government's commitment to enhancing mobility and accessibility across regions.
