The Federal Government has proposed N54,000 as a new minimum wage, sparking fresh debates. This move follows a dramatic walkout by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) during a recent meeting with the Tripartite Committee. The government had previously suggested a minimum wage of N48,000, which was rejected by labor unions.
A source from the ongoing Abuja meeting confirmed the new proposal, stating, “The Federal Government has now proposed the sum of N54,000.” However, it remains uncertain if this will satisfy labor unions, who are demanding a much higher N615,000 minimum wage.
Joe Ajaero, National President of the NLC, insists on the higher figure, citing economic analyses and the needs of an average Nigerian family. Ajaero criticized both the government and the Organised Private Sector (OPS) for the negotiation breakdown, emphasizing that the proposed N48,000 was insulting to Nigerian workers.
He highlighted the disparity between the proposed government wage and the N78,000 minimum paid in the private sector, arguing for a fair and transparent negotiation process. The situation remains tense as discussions continue.