SALARY INCREMENT AND CIVIL SERVANTS’ WELLBEING IN NIGERIA: A HISTORICAL ANALYSIS

Research Problem In spite the fact that civil service is widely recognized as the cornerstone of public administration, serving as the essential framework upon which the fortitude and advancement of expedited social, economic, and political progress in any nation may be established; yet, the financial requirements of civil servants are not adequately satisfied by the government. Methodology/Theory The study utilizes of qualitative data which was derived from secondary sources, including scholarly journal articles, newspapers, and other pertinent documents relevant to the study in question. It also utilizes Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory as its theoretical framework. Results The findings of the study reveal that despite the increase in the remuneration allocated to civil servants as salaries in the nation since 1981, when the minimum wage policy was first instituted, their economic situation has persistently deteriorated. Conclusion This study concludes that the economic challenges stem from the continuous devaluation of the currency (naira), which has been exacerbated by subsequent governmental policies that counteract the salary increments. Contribution to Knowledge The finding contributes to the existing body of knowledge as it bring about something novel by examining the nexus between salary increment and workers wellbeing from historical perspective which has not been done before. Recommendation The study recommends that the Federal Government of Nigeria should ensure the provision of a sufficient salary that is not accompanied by offsetting policies for civil servants, thereby enabling them to adequately address their basic needs irrespective of inflation, which in turn would enhance their productivity.Salary