The organised labour movement is optimistic that the new minimum wage will be announced, passed into law, and implemented before the end of July.
Trade Union Congress (TUC) President, Comrade Festus Osifo, shared this during a meeting in Abuja with Onuh Edoka, the Special Adviser on Labour Matters to the Kogi State Governor, and his delegation.
Osifo emphasized the necessity for the National Tripartite Negotiation Committee, comprising government representatives, labour, and organised labour, to reach an agreement. This would ensure prompt attention from President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly, facilitating the bill’s passage into law.
He stated, “Our goal from both labour centres is to have a new minimum wage by the end of July, having undergone all necessary processes and receiving the President’s assent. This will significantly improve workers’ conditions amidst our current economic challenges and high inflation.”
Labour has proposed a minimum wage of ₦250,000, while the government and organised private sector suggested ₦62,000. Osifo urged all parties to come together to establish a common front so the President can forward the bill to the National Assembly.
Commending the Kogi State government for clarifying the payment of the ₦30,000 minimum wage, Osifo urged state governments to prepare for the implementation of the new wage once it is signed into law. He noted that some states, like Nasarawa, have already started setting aside funds for this purpose.
“We urge all states to prioritize planning for the new minimum wage amid the current revenue scarcity. Labour is ready to ensure the new Minimum Wage Act is implemented across all states, providing much-needed relief to workers.”
The Special Adviser on Labour Matters to the Kogi State Governor, Onuh Edoka, highlighted that Governor Ahmed Ododo’s administration has addressed the shortcomings of the previous administration, particularly in workers’ welfare.
