Organised Labour has firmly rejected the notion of accepting N100,000 as the new minimum wage, urging the Federal Government to take negotiations seriously. The call comes amid ongoing discussions regarding workers’ wages, following the breakdown of talks when the government proposed N48,000 as the new minimum wage.
In response to an invitation for further discussions, the NLC Head of Information and Public Affairs, Benson Upah, emphasized the need for government sincerity. He stressed that the earlier demand for N615,000 as the minimum wage was based on essential living expenses, including accommodation and food costs. Upah highlighted the impact of rising electricity tariffs on household budgets, indicating that a N100,000 wage offer would not suffice.
Echoing similar sentiments, Prof Theophilus Ndubuaku, a member of the NLC delegation, expressed skepticism towards a N100,000 minimum wage. He emphasized the need for a wage that can sustain workers and their families, considering the cost of living in Nigeria.
Labour representatives urged the government to justify any proposed wage adjustments, considering the country’s economic resources. They called for transparency in budgeting and expenditure, particularly in areas such as infrastructure and public services.
While stating their willingness to engage in constructive dialogue, labour leaders insisted on a wage offer that reflects the true cost of living and addresses the needs of workers across various sectors.
