Tensions are high as Nigerian labour unions prepare for a critical meeting with the tripartite committee on minimum wage tomorrow. Organized Labour, a combined force of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), met today to solidify their stance ahead of the negotiations.
Sources close to the committee confirmed that unions are determined to hold firm on their May 31st deadline for a new minimum wage agreement. “We are not shifting grounds,” declared a union member who also sits on the committee. This unwavering commitment sets the stage for a potentially contentious negotiation.
The situation reached a boiling point yesterday when labour leaders walked out on the committee after the Federal Government proposed an N48,000 minimum wage, deemed insufficient by the unions. The private sector, however, countered with a slightly higher initial offer of N54,000.
Labour Demands N615,000 Minimum Wage
The NLC President, Joe Ajaero, vehemently rejects both offers, insisting on a much steeper increase to N615,000. He justifies this figure by citing a comprehensive analysis of the current economic climate and the necessary living expenses for an average Nigerian family. Ajaero blames both the government and the private sector for the breakdown in talks, criticizing their offers as “unreasonable” and failing to meet the basic needs of Nigerian workers.
Private Sector Calls for Negotiation
The private sector, represented by the Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA), expressed disappointment at the unions’ abrupt withdrawal from discussions. NECA Director-General Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde urged the unions to reconsider their stance and return to the negotiating table for the sake of their members and national progress.
Unions Cite Lack of Transparency
Ajaero defends the walkout by highlighting the government’s meagre offer of N48,000, which he considers an insult to Nigerian workers. He further criticizes the lack of supporting data from the government, alleging a lack of transparency and good faith that undermines the negotiation process.
Unions Vow to Fight for Workers’ Rights
The NLC President emphasizes the unwavering commitment of labour unions to advocate for the rights and welfare of Nigerian workers. He urges the government to reconsider its position and approach the negotiations with a genuine understanding of the contributions made by workers and the harsh economic realities faced by ordinary Nigerians.
Background: Minimum Wage Committee Established
In January 2024, President Tinubu, through Vice President Kashim Shettima, inaugurated a 37-member tripartite committee tasked with recommending a new minimum wage. This committee comprises representatives from federal and state governments, the private sector, and organized labour. The urgency for a new wage stems from the expiration of the current N30,000 minimum wage set to expire on April 18th.
With the May 31st deadline looming, tomorrow’s meeting between organized labour and the tripartite committee holds immense weight. The outcome will determine the fate of millions of Nigerian workers and the ability of the committee to reach a consensus amidst these significant disagreements.
