The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has outlined seven key demands for the Federal Government ahead of the May 1, 2024 Workers’ Day celebrations.
In addition to advocating for a new minimum wage, the NLC is calling for the creation of state and local government police forces to address the country’s security challenges.
The NLC emphasized the need for all states, local governments, and the private sector to implement the new minimum wage once it is approved. Regrettably, there are states in Nigeria where workers receive less than ₦10,000 per month. For instance, employees in Zamfara state have yet to see the ₦18,000 Minimum Wage, let alone the current ₦30,000 Minimum Wage.
Zamfara workers, particularly those in local government roles and primary schools, are among the lowest paid in the country. We are currently gearing up for a determined battle against all governors who have failed to implement the minimum wage as directed by the federal government’s May Day proclamation.
International Workers’ Day, also known as Labour Day, is observed annually on May 1 to celebrate the contributions of the working class.
The 2024 Workers’ Day holds particular significance, as President Bola Tinubu is expected to announce the proposed new minimum wage for Nigerian workers on that day. The NLC had previously tentatively set the new minimum wage at ₦615,000 per month.
The ₦30,000 minimum wage, which had been in effect for five years, expired on April 18, 2024. Former President Muhammadu Buhari signed the ₦30,000 Minimum Wage Act into law on April 18, 2019.
To address the issue of a new national minimum wage, a 37-member panel was established in January, with representatives from the federal and state governments, the private sector, and organised labour. The panel is tasked with recommending a fair and sustainable minimum wage for the country.
Despite some progress in meeting the demands of organized labour, challenges remain, including rising inflation, economic hardship, and the removal of petrol subsidy, which have led to protests in various parts of Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of the NLC, Hakeem Ambali highlighted seven key demands, including improved labour-government relations, full implementation of the minimum wage, settlement of pension arrears, establishment of compressed natural gas conversion centers, and infrastructure support for local governments. The NLC is also awaiting an invitation to the next meeting of the tripartite committee on minimum wage.
