Committee on New Minimum Wage to be Established Before Month’s End
The federal government has revealed plans to constitute a committee on a new national minimum wage before the conclusion of this month.
Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, confirmed the development, emphasizing that the panel would be in place soon.
Current Minimum Wage and Labour Unions’ Advocacy
The current minimum wage in Nigeria stands at N30,000, signed into law on April 18, 2019, during former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.
However, recent changes, such as the removal of fuel subsidy by President Bola Tinubu on May 29, 2023, have prompted the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to call for an increase to N200,000 to align with prevailing economic conditions.
Tripartite Committee and President Tinubu’s Directive
During the last Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, President Tinubu reportedly demanded the compilation of names for the tripartite committee responsible for wage deliberations.
This move reflects the government’s intention to engage in thorough discussions with relevant stakeholders.
Government’s Commitment and Assurance to Labour Unions
The federal government has assured the country’s labour unions, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), that it will fulfill all promises made to workers.
Minister Nkeiruka Onyejeocha conveyed this assurance during a visit to the Trade Union Congress (TUC) office, pledging to uphold the existing N35,000 wage award and address outstanding balances.
The government emphasized its labor-friendly stance and urged open communication channels with the unions.
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