Federal Government and Labour Unions Await Presidential Decision on New Minimum Wage

The discussions between the Federal Government and the Organised Labour regarding a new minimum wage are expected to conclude today, as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) await President Bola Tinubu’s response to their proposal of ₦250,000.

The Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage concluded its deliberations last Friday, reaching an agreement between the Federal Government and the Organized Private Sector for ₦62,000. However, the labour unions have stood firm on their demand for a ₦250,000 minimum wage. Contrarily, the Nigeria Governors Forum has expressed concerns over sustainability, suggesting that any minimum wage above ₦60,000 is unfeasible.

A labour leader, speaking anonymously for security reasons, emphasized the anticipation surrounding the President’s decision. “We have submitted the report to the president and are waiting for his decision. That is the most important thing and that is what we are all waiting for,” he said.

Adding to the complexity, NLC President Joe Ajaero and other top union officials have left Nigeria to attend an International Labour Organisation (ILO) conference in Geneva, Switzerland. “As it stands, some of us are on the way to Geneva for the ILO conference. Some have already gone, while others will leave today (Sunday),” another labour leader noted.

The urgency of the situation is heightened by the Monday deadline set by the labour unions. Yet, the NLC and TUC officials plan to hold a National Executive Council meeting upon their return from Geneva to decide on potential strike actions, based on President Tinubu’s feedback. “We should hold a National Executive Council meeting regarding the ultimatum when we return from Geneva. It is very important for us to be there but right now, we are patiently waiting for the decision of Mr. President,” stated an NLC source.