THE Organized Labour has set a new deadline of May 31 for the Federal Government to establish a new minimum wage that is realistic and fair for Nigerian workers.
This demand was made during the Workers’ Day celebrations at the Eagle Square in Abuja.
The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero; and his counterpart in the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Festus Osifo were unanimous that the current minimum wage of N30,000 is inadequate given the current economic challenges such as inflation, high food prices, increased energy costs, and transportation expenses.
The Labour leader called for a new minimum wage of ₦615,000 to be swiftly approved by the government before the end of May to address these issues.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have warned of potential disruptions to industrial harmony if the wage negotiations are not concluded by the deadline.
Additionally, they have requested that the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and power distribution companies to reverse the recent electricity tariff hike for Band A customers within a week.
Ajaero said, “The Nigeria Labour Congress and the TUC have made it clearly and emphatically that should the minimum wage negotiation continue and linger till the end of May, we can no longer guarantee industrial harmony in this country.”
On his part, Osifo asked the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and power distribution companies to immediately reverse the current increase in electricity tariff for Band A customers.
“The NLC and TUC hereby advise NERC and power sector operators to reverse the last increase in electricity tariff within the next one week,” the trade union boss said.
The ongoing fuel scarcity crisis in the country has added to the challenges faced by Nigerians. Despite the government’s assurance to address the issue, long queues at petrol stations persist.
In response to the demands of the workers, the Minister of State Labour, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, revealed that the new minimum wage would take effect from May 1, 2024, even though the negotiations are ongoing.
The president through his deputy, Kashim Shettima also expressed appreciation for the contributions of workers to the country’s development and eagerly awaits the recommendations of the committee on the new national minimum wage.
Meanwhile, NLC boss has described as mischievous, the salary increase of between 25% and 35% for civil servants announced yesterday by the Federal Government.
The Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage was established earlier to recommend a new wage, but its recommendations have yet to be implemented.
Labour leaders argue that the current minimum wage is insufficient to meet the basic needs of workers and have proposed a living wage of N615,000, based on various essential expenses such as housing, electricity, food, healthcare, education, transportation, and other necessities.
They stress the importance of ensuring that the proposed living wage adequately supports the well-being of workers.