In a significant move, the NLC and TUC have agreed to the Nigerian Government’s N70,000 minimum wage offer, citing additional incentives and a commitment to review the wage every three years.
In a landmark decision, leaders of Nigeria’s organized labour, including the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), have accepted the Federal Government’s offer of a N70,000 minimum wage. This agreement was reached after a crucial meeting held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
NLC President’s Statement: Comrade Joe Ajaero, President of the NLC, announced the decision to accept the offer. He was joined by Comrade Festus Usifo, President of the TUC, and other representatives of Nigerian workers.
Ajaero highlighted that the unions agreed to the offer due to the additional incentives attached, which include a promise from President Bola Tinubu to review the minimum wage every three years. This commitment to regular reviews is a significant shift from previous practices.
Initially, the labour leaders had demanded a minimum wage of no less than N250,000. However, the inclusion of periodic reviews and additional incentives persuaded them to accept the N70,000 offer.
The President’s assurance to review the minimum wage every three years aims to ensure that the wage remains fair and reflective of economic realities, thus addressing the unions’ concerns over wage stagnation.
The acceptance of the N70,000 minimum wage by the labour unions marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s labour relations, promising better compensation for workers and a more responsive approach to future wage adjustments. This development is expected to enhance the living standards of Nigerian workers and foster a more harmonious labour environment.
