Tinubu meets labour, expresses commitment to just, realistic minimum wage

President Bola Tinubu says Nigerian workers deserve improved welfare, better wages, as well as safe and enhanced working conditions as the driving force of the nation.

Speaking with the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) led by Joe Ajaero and that of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) led by Festus Osifo on Thursday in Abuja, President Tinubu said he is concerned about the welfare of Nigerian workers and that his administration is prioritising their concerns.

While the federal government is proposing N62,000 as minimum wage, organised labour is asking for N250,000.

The Tripartite Committee set up to negotiate with labour has since concluded its assignment and has submitted its report to the president.

“I pay attention to everything around me. A happy worker is a productive worker. And society depends on the productivity of the happy worker,” the president said.

However, the president called for realistic expectations as regards the minimum wage question, stating: “You have to cut your coat according to available cloth. Before we can finalise on the minimum wage process, we have to look at the structure.

“Why must we adjust wages every five years? Why not two? Why not three years? What is a problem today can be eased up tomorrow. There is much dynamism to this process if we are not myopic in our approaches. We can take a surgical approach that is based on pragmatism and a deep understanding of all factors.”

In his remarks, the NLC President, Mr Ajaero, emphasised the need for an upward adjustment to the minimum wage, noting: “Between living wage and minimum wage, we need to find a balance. Things are difficult for the Nigerian worker.”

He congratulated the president on the judgement of the Supreme Court, affirming the constitutional rights of local governments as regards financial autonomy and other salient principles.

“I have to congratulate you on the issue of local government autonomy. We have been in the streets protesting for local government autonomy. Now that there is light at the end of the tunnel, it will amount to ungratefulness if we fail to commend you,” the NLC president said.

Mr Osifo said inflation has adversely affected the value of the naira and that the measures initiated by the government to address the rising cost of food and transportation need to kick in to give citizens relief.

He said the rollout of Compressed Natural Gas-powered buses will help in checking the high cost of transportation, while the recent directive on the suspension of duty on certain food imports will bring down the prices of food items if properly implemented.

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“We commend you on the landmark judgement of the Supreme Court. History will not forget what has happened today. With this judgement, we believe Nigeria will make progress,” the TUC president also said.

Further talks were adjourned until next week to allow for wider consultation with all stakeholders.

Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

July 11, 2024