In ongoing negotiations with the Federal Government, Organised Labour has firmly stated that it will not accept any minimum wage below N100,000. Sources from the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) emphasized that a six-figure wage is non-negotiable.
The unions have criticized the government’s offer to increase the minimum wage from N48,000 to N57,000, deeming it inadequate. They argue that this proposal fails to meet the living wage promise made by President Bola Tinubu.
A critical National Executive Council meeting is set for Monday to prepare for discussions with the Tripartite Committee on Minimum Wage scheduled for Wednesday. This follows the adjournment of the latest meeting after Organised Labour rejected the government’s revised offer of N54,000.
Labour has significantly reduced its initial demand from N615,000 to N497,000, but insists that any acceptable minimum wage must be at least N100,000. Labour leaders have expressed frustration with the lack of seriousness from both the government and the Organised Private Sector (OPS).
NLC and TUC have reiterated a deadline of May 31, 2024, for implementing the new minimum wage. Labour leaders warn that failing to agree on a six-figure minimum wage could lead to industrial action, emphasizing that they have the right to strike.
Meanwhile, some states, including Kogi, Zamfara, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Sokoto, have yet to implement the previous N30,000 minimum wage. The Anambra State Government cited financial constraints as the reason for their non-compliance.
Negotiations are expected to continue, with Labour indicating a willingness to consider a lower figure if the government presents a reasonable offer.
