Organised labour has shown flexibility in the ongoing debate over Nigeria’s new minimum wage, indicating they are open to negotiation rather than adhering to a fixed amount. This update follows the recent conclusion of discussions by the tripartite committee, which includes government, private sector, and labour union representatives.
The committee has proposed two figures for President Bola Tinubu’s consideration: ₦62,000 from the government and private sector, and ₦250,000 from organised labour. Despite the significant difference, there is an openness to further discussions and adjustments, as highlighted by Festus Osifo, President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC).
Osifo stated on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief that “no figure is sacrosanct,” reflecting the unions’ willingness to find a mutually agreeable wage that acknowledges the country’s economic conditions. He emphasized that the unions are prepared to adjust their demands to reach a fair resolution.