The ongoing discussions about Nigeria’s new minimum wage between the Federal Government and Organised Labour are expected to conclude today, Monday. Leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) are awaiting President Bola Tinubu’s response to their proposal of N250,000.
### Tripartite Committee Meetings
Last Friday, the Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage wrapped up its meetings, where an agreement was reached between the Federal Government and the Organized Private Sector on a N62,000 minimum wage. In contrast, Labour has been firm on their demand for N250,000. However, the Nigeria Governors Forum released a statement indicating that any wage above N60,000 would not be sustainable.
### Labour’s Standpoint
On Sunday, labour leaders spoke with correspondents, emphasizing that all parties are now waiting for President Tinubu to make a decision based on the proposals submitted by the tripartite committee. For security reasons, the leaders chose not to be named. They did, however, note that NLC President Joe Ajaero and other senior union officials had departed for a labour conference organized by the International Labour Organisation in Geneva, Switzerland.
The PUNCH was informed that upon returning from Geneva, labour leaders would convene a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting to decide on the strike, contingent on feedback from the president. “We have submitted the report to the president and are now waiting for his decision. This is the crucial step we’re all anticipating,” stated a top NLC official.
### The Geneva Conference and Precautionary Measures
The official explained, “Some of us are already en route to Geneva, while others will be departing soon. Before holding a NEC meeting, we must return from Geneva. Additionally, we are cautious to ensure the government does not perceive Labour as inciting citizens. We must be mindful of the government’s control over the military, which is why we are waiting.”
When queried about the Monday deadline, another source within the NLC mentioned, “We have submitted our report to the committee and are waiting for the president to act. Upon our return from Geneva, we will hold a NEC meeting regarding the ultimatum. Our presence at the conference is crucial, but we are currently awaiting the president’s decision.”
### Recent Strike Actions
Organised Labour, which includes the NLC and TUC, launched a two-day nationwide strike last Monday and Tuesday to push for a new minimum wage and the reversal of the electricity tariff hike. The strike was suspended for five days following a six-hour meeting between labour leaders and the National Assembly in Abuja on Monday night. This suspension came after signing a commitment with the Federal Government to resume negotiations and agree on a new minimum wage within a week.
### President Tinubu’s Directives
To expedite the talks, President Tinubu instructed Finance Minister Wale Edun on Tuesday to present the cost implications of a new minimum wage within two days. Additionally, he directed government representatives to collaborate with the organised private sector and sub-national entities to establish an affordable wage award for Nigerians. On Thursday, the finance minister, along with the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Atiku Bagudu, presented these cost implications to Tinubu at the Presidential Villa. The president is currently reviewing the proposal and is expected to make an official announcement soon.