NLC criticizes Tinubu’s minimum wage review declaration, expresses concerns over lack of cooperation

The Nigeria Labour Congress has expressed criticism towards President Bola Tinubu’s recent statement about the imminent review of the minimum wage.

In a speech released on Monday night, the Congress emphasized that it is common knowledge that the review of the minimum wage is legally scheduled to commence in 2024.

The Congress also raised concerns about the lack of cooperation and dialogue from the Tinubu administration with regards to the organized labor.

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The statement, signed by the national president, Joe Ajaero, stated, “Labour is disturbed that while President Tinubu in his speech lavishly praised the Private Sector for quickly dispensing wage awards to their employees, the Federal Government has failed to do the same for public workers in its employment. This is a clear case of failing woefully to live up to the standards it has set for others to meet.”

“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!” the statement further read.

Addressing the negotiations, Ajaero highlighted the lack of progress in discussions with the Federal Government.

He said, “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.”