Negotiations over the new minimum wage have been adjourned until Wednesday after the organized labour rejected the Federal Government’s proposal of N54,000.
Tuesday’s meeting followed a walkout by organized labour members last week when the Federal Government proposed N48,000 as the new minimum wage. During the recent meeting, the Organised Private Sector (OPS) suggested N54,000, while labour maintained its demand for a N615,000 living wage.
“During the meeting, the government increased its offer from N48,000 to N54,000. However, labour rejected that offer, and the meeting has been adjourned until Wednesday,” said a source who requested anonymity.
When questioned about the government’s commitment, a labour leader remarked, “No seriousness at all. Even state governors did not show up. Those who represented them, such as delegates from Bauchi and Niger states, lacked the mandate to speak on their behalf.”
Regarding the private sector’s involvement, the leader noted, “We did not engage with them before the meeting was adjourned, but we hope they also increase their initial offer.”
National President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero insisted on a N615,000 minimum wage, citing an analysis of the current economic conditions and the needs of an average Nigerian family of six.
Ajaero criticized the government and OPS for the negotiation breakdown, stating, “Despite earnest efforts to reach an equitable agreement, the less-than-reasonable actions of the Government and the Organised Private Sector have led to a breakdown in negotiations.”
Organized labour reiterated its deadline of May 31, 2024, for the implementation of the new minimum wage.
