The Federal Government of Nigeria has urged labour unions to maintain ongoing negotiations regarding the new minimum wage.
The appeal, made by Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, on Monday at a press conference in Abuja, highlights the government’s dedication to achieving a peaceful and mutually beneficial outcome.
Idris emphasized the recent efforts made by both the National Assembly and the government to actively engage with the Labour Unions.
He emphasized the FG’s willingness to engage in dialogue, highlighting the significance of working together. We are committed to actively participating in these negotiations and ensuring that we are easily accessible to represent the interests of the Nigerian people.
It is important to clarify that we are not adversaries in this negotiation. Idris stated that our shared goal is to ensure the well-being of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and its 200 million citizens.
He emphasized the importance of finding a fair and practical solution, highlighting the major consequences of the current labor proposal.
The labour unions have put forward a new proposal for the minimum wage, suggesting a significant increase of 1,547 per cent from the current wage. Idris points out that the annual wage bill for the Federal Government alone would amount to N9.5 trillion, without even considering the extra expenses for state governments and private sector employers.
Idris cautioned that such a rise could have severe consequences for the economy, potentially resulting in significant job cuts.
In addition to other measures aimed at alleviating economic pressures on Nigerians, the government has highlighted the National Consumer Credit Scheme and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund.
Idris highlighted the importance of addressing both increased wages and reducing the cost of living to provide relief for Nigerians and improve their disposable income.
The Nigeria Labour Congress announced a nationwide indefinite strike set to begin at midnight on Sunday, June 2, 2024.
This action is in response to the Federal Government’s decision not to raise the proposed minimum wage beyond N60,000.
The President of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, declared the strike after unsuccessful negotiations between the government and organized labor.