Firm Stance on Wage Demand
Organised Labour remains unwavering in its demand for a ₦250,000 minimum wage, rejecting lower proposals as inadequate. Chris Onyeka, Assistant General Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), affirmed that the union will not consider offers of ₦62,000 and ₦100,000.
Labour’s Position in Geneva
At the International Labour Conference in Geneva, NLC President Joe Ajaero stressed that labour is awaiting President Bola Tinubu’s decision. The Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage has submitted its report, with government and private sector agreements at ₦62,000, but labour maintains its demand for ₦250,000.
Report Presentation to President
Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations for the OSGF, announced that the committee’s report would be formally presented to the President once labour leaders return from Switzerland. Imohiosen thanked the committee members for their dedication.
Ultimatum to Government
Onyeka highlighted that the one-week ultimatum given to the Federal Government expires today. Should the government and the National Assembly fail to act, the NLC and TUC will consider resuming nationwide industrial action. Onyeka urged comprehensive legislative action to address labour’s demands.
Awaiting Presidential Decision
Ajaero clarified that labour has not accepted the ₦62,000 proposal and awaits the President’s decision. He expressed hope that President Tinubu will favourably consider the significant gap between the proposed figures, recalling former President Buhari’s increase of a lower proposed figure.
Criticism of State Governors
Ajaero criticised state governors for rejecting the ₦62,000 proposal, praising Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State for paying a ₦70,000 minimum wage. Benson Upah, head of the NLC’s information department, blamed government financial mismanagement for economic challenges, urging good faith negotiations.
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