New Imprest Policy Sparks Debate as Nigerian Workers Continue to Earn N70,000 Minimum Wage
The Federal Government has increased the monthly imprest allocation for ministers by 133 percent, raising the amount from N300,000 to N700,000, according to the 2026 Annual General Imprest Warrant issued by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF).
The development has generated widespread public discussion, particularly as millions of Nigerian workers continue to earn the recently approved N70,000 national minimum wage.
Government Clarifies Reports on Imprest Allocations
The increase comes amid reports suggesting that imprest allocations for Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) had been reduced. However, official documents reviewed by DAILY POST indicate that the allocations were actually increased rather than cut.
Imprest refers to funds made available to public officials for routine administrative expenses such as office stationery, refreshments, local logistics, and other minor operational needs.
Under the revised 2026 policy, ministers will now receive N700,000 monthly as imprest, representing a 133 percent increase from the previous N300,000 allocation.
Similarly, directors and other senior government officials are expected to benefit from significant increases, with some categories reportedly receiving increases of up to 199 percent.
Accountant General’s Office Confirms Increase
The spokesperson of the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, Bawa Mokwa, confirmed the adjustment, stating that the increase was introduced to reflect current economic realities and the rising cost of government operations.
According to him, the decision was not limited to ministers alone but also affected other categories of senior public officials.
The adjustment is part of broader efforts by government institutions to align operational expenditures with prevailing inflationary pressures and increased administrative costs.
Rising Cost of Living Fuels Public Reactions
The timing of the increase has attracted public attention because it coincides with ongoing concerns about the welfare of Nigerian workers.
Many workers and labour unions have argued that the N70,000 minimum wage is insufficient to meet basic living expenses amid rising inflation, transportation costs, food prices, and utility bills.
At the current rate, a worker earning the minimum wage receives N840,000 annually, an amount many economic analysts believe falls short of the actual cost of living in several parts of the country.
Labour Unions Push for Higher Wages
The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has consistently advocated for a substantial review of workers’ salaries and has proposed a minimum wage of N1 million per month to reflect economic realities.
On the other hand, the Nigerian
Governors Forum previously suggested a more moderate increase to N100,000 monthly, citing fiscal constraints faced by state governments.
The debate over wage adjustments remains a key national issue as labour leaders continue discussions with government stakeholders on measures to improve workers’ welfare.
Economic Implications of the New Imprest Policy
Analysts say the increase in imprest allocations highlights the broader impact of inflation on both public institutions and private households.
While government officials argue that operational costs have risen significantly, critics believe similar urgency should be applied to improving workers’ earnings and strengthening social welfare programs.
The policy is expected to remain a subject of public scrutiny as Nigerians continue to assess government spending priorities against the backdrop of economic challenges facing ordinary citizens.
Conclusion
The Federal Government’s decision to increase ministers’ monthly imprest to N700,000 underscores the growing financial pressures within public administration. However, the move is likely to intensify conversations about income inequality, workers’ welfare, and the adequacy of the current N70,000 minimum wage.
As economic reforms continue, stakeholders across labour, government, and the private sector are expected to closely monitor how such fiscal decisions affect public confidence and living standards across the country.