Organised labour has rebuffed the notion of accepting N100,000 as the new minimum wage, urging the government to take negotiations seriously.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), withdrew from negotiation talks last week when the government proposed N48,000 as the new minimum wage.
Advertorial
Chairman of the Tripartite Committee on the National Minimum Wage, Alhaji Bukar Goni, has invited organised labour for a meeting to discuss the issue further, suggesting a potential shift in the government’s stance.
NLC’s Head of Information and Public Affairs, Benson Upah, stressed the importance of government sincerity in addressing workers’ wages, emphasizing the significant impact of the proposed N100,000 minimum wage on livelihoods.
Advertorial
Addressing concerns over the feasibility of N100,000, Prof Theophilus Ndubuaku, a member of the NLC delegation, asserted that such an amount would not adequately sustain workers, especially those supporting families.
He underscored the need for a wage that ensures workers’ well-being, considering factors like family size and living expenses.
Labour representatives criticized government expenditure priorities, highlighting instances of perceived wasteful spending and emphasizing the need for fiscal responsibility.
Advertorial
They called for transparency in the breakdown of proposed wages, urging the government to justify its financial constraints and explore avenues for revenue generation.
While indicating a willingness to consider reasonable proposals, organised labour emphasized the importance of realistic wage figures based on thorough analysis and consultation.
They rejected arbitrary figures and called for a substantive dialogue grounded in factual data and economic realities.
As negotiations continue, the labour movement remains steadfast in advocating for fair wages that reflect the true cost of living and contribute to workers’ welfare and dignity.
