The Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage chairman, Bukar Goni Aji, has urged Labour to accept the federal government’s offer of N62,000 as the new minimum wage. However, Labour has rejected this call, stating that the chairman’s appeal demonstrates a lack of understanding of the hardships faced by Nigerian workers.
Labour argued that its demand for a national minimum wage of N250,000 is based on the current market prices of essential goods and services, which have skyrocketed due to governmental policies. The prices of basic commodities like rice, yam, garri, bread, meat, oil, and transportation have increased significantly, making it difficult for workers to afford basic needs.
Labour also criticized the government’s offer for lacking transparency and failing to reflect the true cost of living in Nigeria. The government’s offer is seen as disconnected from the economic realities and does not meet the basic economic needs of Nigerian workers.
The Anglican Communion has also weighed in on the issue, calling on the federal and state governments to pay workers a living wage and maintain fiscal prudence and accountability.
The Senate Leader, Sen. Opeyemi Bamidele, has urged Labour to accept whatever the federal government offers above N60,000, citing the need for dialogue and peace in the negotiation process.
The minimum wage debate continues, with Labour insisting on a wage that reflects the true cost of living in Nigeria and the government offering a lower amount.
