Thoughtful TUC Discussion On The National Minimum Wage

TUC’s Deputy President, Mr. Tommy Okon, expressed concerns to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos yesterday, stating that the failure to inaugurate the committee three months before the expiration of the current minimum wage was worrisome.

He emphasized that organized labor is unwilling to face pressure regarding the wage increase and stressed the importance of conducting negotiations in accordance with the rules of engagement.

Okon disclosed that organized labor had already submitted the list of committee members for the minimum wage negotiations. He expressed uncertainty about the government’s intentions, emphasizing that the committee should have been inaugurated by now.

“It is expected that by now, the committee would have been inaugurated, and a chairman appointed. This is because it is tripartite in nature, and the committee has to conduct activities on a zonal basis,” Okon said.

He highlighted the positive and negative implications of further delays in setting up the committee. On the positive side, it could indicate that the government has a clear agenda, but on the negative side, it might convey the impression that the government is unwilling to negotiate the National Minimum Wage.

Okon underscored the challenges faced by Nigerian workers and the masses due to socio-economic difficulties, emphasizing that the current minimum wage of N30,000 is insufficient for basic needs.

He also pointed out that the delay could send a negative signal to international communities, especially in the context of the transition to renewable energy.

Regarding the National Minimum Wage review, Okon emphasized that it is a crucial task that must be executed effectively.

The Federal Government, on January 17, pledged to fulfill its agreements with organized labor, as announced by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mrs. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, during a visit to the TUC office in Abuja. Onyejeocha acknowledged the challenges faced by trade unions and expressed the government’s readiness to collaborate while emphasizing the importance of keeping communication channels open.