The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has deemed the Federal Government’s proposed ₦54,000 minimum wage insufficient to sustain a family, emphasizing the need for a more substantial increase. NLC President Joe Ajaero expressed these concerns during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Tuesday.
“You can see that ₦54,000 is still not substantial compared to what you need to keep a family moving,” Ajaero stated. He highlighted that the proposed amount is far below the ₦615,000 living wage demanded by the NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC).
During a recent reconvened meeting, the Federal Government revised its initial offer of ₦48,000 to ₦54,000. However, this proposal was rejected by the Organised Labour, which is holding firm on its ₦615,000 demand, citing the current economic hardships and rising cost of living.
The meeting, held behind closed doors at the Nicon Luxury Hotel in Abuja, was adjourned to Wednesday, May 22, to continue negotiations. The NLC and TUC have given the Federal Government a deadline of May 31 to finalize the new minimum wage agreement. Additionally, they have instructed their members in states that have not implemented the current ₦30,000 minimum wage to prepare for potential industrial action.
The delay in presenting a nationally acceptable minimum wage before the May 1 Labour Day has escalated tensions between labour unions and the government. Ajaero insists that the ₦615,000 figure is justified based on a thorough analysis of the economic situation and the needs of an average Nigerian family of six.
The rising cost of living, exacerbated by the removal of the fuel subsidy, has intensified calls for a new minimum wage. Ajaero and other labour leaders remain steadfast in their demand, urging the government to address the issue promptly to avoid further unrest.
In related news, the Labour Party has mocked the NLC President, suggesting he should resign to contest for chairmanship, highlighting the ongoing political and economic tensions in the country.
