After a prolonged break, the tripartite committee established by the Federal Government is scheduled to convene today. This committee, tasked with addressing the expiration of the previous minimum wage and proposing a new one, will finally resume discussions. President Bola Tinubu inaugurated this 37-member committee in January to recommend a revised national minimum wage. Led by Goni Aji, the 37-member committee includes individuals with diverse backgrounds and expertise. Comprising representatives from federal, state governments, the private sector, and organized labour, the committee is tasked with recommending a new national minimum wage.
During the committee’s inauguration, Shettima emphasized the need for prompt resolution and early report submission. He urged collective bargaining, stressing contract adherence and wider consultations. Shettima underscored the importance of these actions for the emergence of a new minimum wage. He encouraged members to engage in good faith negotiations. The committee, chaired by Goni Aji, conducted a zonal public hearing on March 7, 2024, in several cities. During the hearings, labor unions such as the NLC and TUC proposed different figures for a new minimum wage.
The committee held a zonal public hearing on March 7, 2024, in cities like Lagos and Abuja, fulfilling its responsibilities. Additionally, the NLC and TUC put forth diverse suggestions for a living wage, considering economic hardships and rising living expenses. Moreover, these proposals reflected the differing economic conditions across regions, ranging from the South-West to the North-Central. Furthermore, the hearings provided a platform for stakeholders to voice their perspectives on minimum wage adjustments.
In different regions, stakeholders presented differing proposals for the minimum wage, with demands ranging from N447,000 to N850,000. However, after hosting a zonal public hearing and considering labor unions’ proposals, the committee remains indecisive about reaching a definitive conclusion. Nonetheless, sources familiar with the matter have confirmed the resumption of negotiations.
The labor unions are unwavering in their call for a minimum wage of N615,000 and stress a May 31st deadline. President Tinubu has recognized the possible negative repercussions and directed the suspension of the cybersecurity levy’s implementation for review. This decision aligns with the need to address concerns and evaluate the levy’s impact carefully. The move reflects a cautious approach toward policymaking and its implications for citizens’ welfare.
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