The Ajero-led Nigeria Labour Congress on Monday reacted to the president Bola Tinubu’s declaration that the review of minimum wage was imminent.
In their statement, the Congress pointed out that the review of the minimum wage is scheduled to begin in 2024 as mandated by law, and it is widely known. They also expressed concern over the lack of cooperation and dialogue from the Tinubu administration with members of the organised labor.
GOVIMA grouped the President into five ,In the address, the President discusses the removal of fuel subsidies, emphasizing that it had become a burden on the country’s finances and benefited a select few.
He acknowledges the challenges faced by Nigerians due to economic reforms but assures them of long-term benefits.
The government plans to invest in key sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and transportation to boost the economy and create jobs.
Measures are being taken to support small businesses and improve access to education.
At the end, The President urges patience and faith in the government’s commitment to delivering a better future for the nation.
The national president, Joe Ajaero, signed the statement, expressing the labor’s concern.
The statement criticises President Tinubu for praising the Private Sector for promptly granting wage awards to their employees while failing to do the same for public workers in the Federal Government’s employment.
This discrepancy is seen as a failure to uphold the standards set for others to follow.
“It is open knowledge that the review of the national minimum wage is a matter of the law which is expected to happen in 2024. How would Nigerian workers cope with the current reality of hyperinflation and suffering unleashed by the hasty removal of the so-called petrol subsidy till 2024 when the national minimum wage would be reviewed? This is incredible!”
“Organised Labour has been forced to negotiate with empty chairs on the Federal Government’s side as the Federal Government has not matched its public promises with firm commitment to negotiate in good faith with labour. As a matter of fact, the sub-committee on wage award has not been inaugurated and has not met.”Ajero said.