A Resolution to the Crisis
Workers of the Kano State Water Board have ended their week-long strike after successful negotiations with state officials. The strike, which began on February 26, 2025, was triggered by the non-implementation of the new minimum wage. The resolution marks a significant step toward addressing the grievances of the workers and restoring normalcy to water services in the state.
Why Did the Workers Strike?
The strike was initiated due to the Kano State government’s failure to include Water Board workers in the new minimum wage structure. Reports indicated that workers across the state had not received their salaries for nearly four months, leading to widespread frustration and financial hardship.
The Negotiation Process
The decision to call off the strike followed intensive discussions between the Water Board Workers’ Union and key stakeholders, including:
Kano State Commissioner for Budget and Planning
Comrade Kabiru Inuwa, State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC)
Two permanent secretaries
Two advisers appointed by the governor
Comrade Najib Abdulsalam, Chairman of the Kano State chapter of the Water Board Workers’ Union, confirmed the development in an interview with VOA Hausa.
“We held discussions with the Kano State Commissioner for Budget and Planning, the state chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Kabiru Inuwa, two permanent secretaries, and two advisers appointed by the governor to liaise with the workers,” Najib explained.
Strike Suspended, Workers Resume Duties
Following the resolution, Comrade Najib directed all Kano State Water Board workers to resume their duties on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. The suspension of the strike is expected to bring relief to residents who have faced disruptions in water supply over the past week.
What’s Next?
While the immediate crisis has been resolved, the Kano State government must now ensure the timely implementation of the new minimum wage and address the underlying issues that led to the strike. Workers and residents alike will be watching closely to see if the government fulfills its commitments.
