Nigerian Senators’ salary has been a subject of public debate, with allegations of exorbitant salaries circulating. In a move to address these concerns, the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) issued a statement clarifying the actual pay structure of Senators.
The RMAFC Chairman M. B. Shehu, directly responded to comments attributed to former Senator Shehu Sani, who claimed Senators receive a monthly running cost of N13.5 million in addition to their N750,000 basic salary. The RMAFC categorically refuted these claims, emphasizing that the actual monthly pay for each Senator totals N1,063,860.
Official Breakdown by RMAFC
Basic Salary: N168,866.70
Motor Vehicle Fuelling and Maintenance Allowance: N126,650.00
Personal Assistant Allowance: N42,216.66
Domestic Staff Allowance: N126,650.00
Entertainment Allowance: N50,660.00
Utilities Allowance: N50,660.00
Newspapers/Periodicals Allowance: N25,330.00
Wardrobe Allowance: N42,216.66
House Maintenance Allowance: N8,443.33
Constituency Allowance: N422,166.66
Distinguishing Regular and Non-Regular Allowances
The RMAFC clarifies the distinction between regular and non-regular allowances. Regular allowances, like the basic salary, are paid consistently. Conversely, non-regular allowances are disbursed as needed. Examples include:
Furniture Allowance: N6,079,200.00 (Paid once per tenure)
Severance Gratuity: N6,079,200.00 (Paid once per tenure)
Vehicle Allowance: N8,105,600.00 (Optional loan to be repaid)
Addressing Housing Misconceptions
Shehu emphasizes that, with few exceptions, housing benefits are no longer provided to public and legislative officers. This includes Senators, with the exception of top positions like President and Vice President.
Transparency and Public Access to Information
The RMAFC encourages Nigerians and international stakeholders to access the official information on remuneration packages for public officials. This information is readily available on their website (rmafc.gov.ng), promoting transparency and mitigating misinformation.
Read Also: Nigeria’s Private Sector Contracts in July as PMI Dips Below 50
If You Ask Me: Considerations and Concerns
While the official breakdown provides clarity, the issue of Senators’ pay remains a subject of debate. Critics argue that the total package is excessive, particularly considering the economic challenges facing many Nigerians. Here are some additional points to consider:
Comparison with National Minimum Wage: The current national minimum wage in Nigeria is approximately ₦70,000 per month. In comparison, Senators’ salaries appear significantly higher, raising questions about wage inequality.
Justification for Allowances: The purpose and necessity of certain allowances, like entertainment and wardrobe, may be questioned.
Accountability and Performance: Critics argue that compensation should be linked to performance and effective representation of constituents.
The RMAFC’s clarification on Senators’ pay provides valuable transparency. However, the issue remains a complex one. Open dialogue is crucial to ensure public officials’ compensation aligns with national priorities and promotes accountability.