Negotiations for a new minimum wage have hit a deadlock as the Federal Government and organised labour fail to reach a consensus on the issue.
President Bola Tinubu, speaking at the International Workers’ Day celebration in Abuja, hinted at the impasse.
The President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, in an interview with The PUNCH, questioned the workers’ insistence on the ₦615,000 minimum wage, emphasizing the lack of agreement between the government and labour unions on the amount.
However, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero, defended the demand, stating that it was necessary to prevent impoverishment among workers.
The tripartite committee, set up by the President in January, consists of government, labour, and private sector representatives to review the current ₦30,000 minimum wage.
Despite the proposal of ₦615,000 minimum wage by the NLC and TUC, the government has yet to accept the demand, leading to a stalemate in negotiations.
Top officials of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, speaking anonymously, revealed the government’s proposal of ₦60,000 to ₦70,000 as opposed to the workers’ demand.
Ajaero defended the ₦615,000 figure, citing an analysis of the current economic situation and the needs of an average Nigerian family of six.
President Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, assured workers of the government’s commitment to resolve the impasse and ensure fair living conditions.
The Presidency cited the feasibility of the demand, stating that the government cannot afford a minimum wage beyond its means.
Despite the negotiation deadlock, workers demand an end to excessive borrowing by the Federal Government and express concerns over energy management and fuel crisis in the country.
Labour calls for transparency in governance and accountability for public funds, urging the government to prioritize the welfare of its people and support local industries for a brighter future.
