NLC kicks against governors’ stance on Minimum Wage, calls it ‘dictatorial’

BY UKPONO UKPONG

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed deep concern over recent statements by some Nigerian Governors regarding their desire to set minimum wages as they see fit.

Benson Upah, the NLC’s Head of Information and Public Affairs, criticized this approach, labeling it as dictatorial and contrary to the principles underlying the national minimum wage system in Nigeria.

In a statement, Upah emphasized that the national minimum wage is not an arbitrary figure but a national wage floor designed to ensure a minimum standard of living for all workers.

He argued that allowing Governors to unilaterally determine the minimum wage undermines this collective agreement and poses a significant threat to the welfare of Nigerian workers and the national economy.

Upah highlighted the distinction between the national minimum wage and the individual pay structures implemented by states.

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He noted that while states can tailor their pay structures to reflect their unique financial circumstances, the national minimum wage remains a necessary baseline that should not be compromised.

The NLC’s statement also pointed out the inconsistency in the Governors’ argument when compared to the remuneration of political office holders, who receive uniform salaries as determined by the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission.

Upah called out this double standard, which he said pits a few privileged individuals against the majority of the poor, questioning why there is no similar debate over the salaries of political office holders.

“The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) is compelled to address the recent statements made by some Nigerian Governors regarding their desire to pay what they deem fit to Nigerian workers as the minimum wage.

“This notion is not only dictatorial but also undermines the very essence as well as the model adopted for creating a national minimum wage in Nigeria.

“The concept of a national minimum wage is not arbitrary. It represents a national wage floor, a baseline below which no worker in the law should be paid.

“This threshold is a collective agreement that ensures a minimum standard of living for every worker in the law. The Governors’ demand to unilaterally determine the minimum wage negates this principle and threatens the welfare of Nigerian workers and the national economy.

“It is important to remind the Governors that the national minimum wage is not synonymous with the individual pay structures of the states which they implement religiously, reflecting their unique financial capabilities and circumstances. This diversity in pay structures underscores the flexibility that already exists within the system, allowing states to reward their workers in alignment with their financial realities.”

The NLC expressed disappointment at the Governors’ apparent ignorance of global best practices regarding national minimum wages. Despite frequent travels abroad, Upah suggested that some Governors have failed to educate themselves on crucial governance issues. This lack of understanding, he argued, contributes to poor governance and the unacceptable suffering of Nigerians.

He even suggested that these Governors might benefit from further education to avoid being a threat to democracy.

The NLC also commended Governors who prioritize the welfare of workers through their policies. Upah emphasized the importance of working with progressive-minded leaders who truly care about the conditions of Nigerian workers and the overall development of the country.

According to the NLC, the Governors’ pursuit of arbitrary wage payments deepens poverty and exacerbates insecurity. Upah warned that while Governors might feel protected by their current security details, this sense of security might not last once they leave office.

The statement lamented the perception of workers’ salaries as charity rather than earned income. Upah criticised some Governors for prioritizing their own greed over the needs of ordinary citizens, pointing out that workers’ salaries significantly drive the economy.

Upah stressed that the fate of Nigerian workers should not be left solely in the hands of employers, whether public or private. Allowing Governors to set wages independently, he argued, is akin to letting companies pay whatever they like, which would undermine the national wage floor.

The NLC called on President Tinubu to uphold his promise of a living wage, which is superior to a minimum wage. Upah urged the President not to be swayed by the unpatriotic actions of some Governors and to take a firm stand on the issue.

The federal government was also urged to take decisive action on the national minimum wage and not be intimidated by a few selfish Governors.

The NLC maintained that the process of setting the minimum wage is tripartite, involving the government, employers, and workers.

Moreso, the NLC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigerian workers.

Upah called for policies driven by equity and fairness, emphasizing that ensuring a fair minimum wage is essential for economic justice, social stability, and national cohesion.

He urged the Governors to join the NLC in this commitment for the benefit of all Nigerians, allowing democracy to flourish.