Yesterday, organized labor called on the federal government to raise the minimum wage to N615,000, citing the current economic realities such as the steep increase in prices of essential goods like food, transportation, and electricity. This demand was made by the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, and his Trade Union Congress (TUC) counterpart, Festus Osifo, during the Workers’ Day celebration at Eagle Square, Abuja,Daily Trust reports.
They urged the government to finalize the implementation of the new national minimum wage for workers by the end of May, warning of potential unrest if this deadline isn’t met. The NLC criticized the recent salary increments for public servants as inadequate.
Ajaero emphasized the need for a living wage that aligns with workers’ needs, proposing a two-year lifespan for the new Act with automatic adjustments linked to inflation rates above 7.5 percent.
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Regarding electricity tariffs, labor leaders demanded a reversal within a week, expressing dissatisfaction with the power sector’s performance and the burden of estimated billing on citizens.
President Bola Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, assured workers that the government is considering a new “living wage” beyond the proposed minimum wage. Despite challenges like insecurity and economic difficulties, he pledged the administration’s commitment to national development.
The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, assured workers that the new minimum wage would take effect from May 1, 2024, despite the delay in reaching a consensus. She emphasized the government’s receptiveness to transitioning towards a living wage and urged all stakeholders to collaborate for the nation’s prosperity.
