Falling wages and motivation in the public service: Implications and outcomes

Abstract

The paper having reviewed the present salaries and wages paid in the Federal Public service concluded that in real terms they are inadequate and have fallen short of what was paid to public officers betWeen 1982 and 1988 with 1985 as base year. This dismally loW pay has had a demoralizing effect on the workers. This has resulted in high turnover rate in terms of personnel, poor policy formulation and implementation and rampant corruption. The study has found that public officers 'moonlight'. and/or 'daylight' to make ends meet. This has resulted in low productivity and inefficiency. The paper recommends the payment of living wages that would bring commitment and dedication to service and would ensure capacity to hire and retain quality Staff.