The presidency has asserted that organized labour should express gratitude for Nigeria’s civilian rule, especially in light of the recently lifted nationwide strike. President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, emphasized that the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) enjoy significant freedom under the civilian regime.
Onanuga criticized labour for shutting down airports and the national grid during the strike, stating that such actions were extreme and irresponsible. He urged labour to see itself as a partner with the Federal Government rather than an adversary.
While organized labour demanded a minimum wage of ₦494,000, the Federal Government proposed ₦60,000. President Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to a wage exceeding ₦60,000, and negotiations between the government and labour are ongoing following the strike’s resolution.
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