Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) Adjusts Minimum Wage Proposal Amid Economic Realities
In a significant shift, the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has revised its initial proposal of a N200,000 minimum wage for Nigerian workers. The adjustment comes in response to the challenging economic conditions facing the nation.
President Bola Tinubu, through Vice President Kashim Shettima, recently inaugurated a 37-member committee tasked with reviewing the national minimum wage.
National Vice President of the NLC, Tommy Etim, acknowledged the impracticality of the previously suggested N200,000 wage, citing the intensified socio-economic challenges and the devalued exchange rate.
Etim emphasized that the committee would now approach wage negotiations based on the current economic realities. He stated, “N200,000 is no longer tenable.”
When questioned about the minimum amount the NLC intends to propose, Etim explained, “We are not going there with a fixed amount, but definitely not N200,000.
By the time we get there, we will decide based on the socio-economic situation. That’s what we are going to base our national minimum wage discussion and negotiation on.”
The Federal Government, on January 30, unveiled its 37-member wage committee, urging them to engage in genuine collective bargaining. The Ministry of Finance was directed to ensure adequate funding for the committee’s activities, emphasizing the importance of honoring contracts.
President Bola Tinubu underscored the need for wide consultations and consideration of the parties’ ability to sustain the proposed new wage.
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In a related development, organized labour has proposed a living wage of $300 for Nigerian workers nationwide. This proposal aligns with the ongoing efforts to review the minimum wage, with the 37-member committee playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of workers’ remuneration in the country.
As the committee begins its deliberations, the timely submission of recommendations is crucial for implementing a new National Minimum Wage.
