Organised Labour, represented by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has vehemently opposed the stance of state governors, as voiced through the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), regarding their purported inability to meet the N60,000 minimum wage. In a bid to avert a potential national crisis, NLC has urged governors to reconsider their position, emphasizing the urgency of prioritizing workers’ welfare.
NLC’s Head of Information and Public Affairs, Benson Upah, rebuked governors for their claims, citing the substantial increase in FAAC allocations from N700 billion to N1.2 trillion, which has ostensibly enriched governments while neglecting the well-being of the populace.
In a strongly worded statement titled “Save the country from a certain death,” Upah admonished governors to streamline governance costs, combat corruption, and place workers’ interests at the forefront of their agenda. He expressed alarm over the NGF’s assertion that some states would resort to borrowing to meet the minimum wage requirement, labeling it as an act of bad faith and underscoring the need for transparency in ongoing negotiations.
NLC emphasized that the essence of a national minimum wage is to safeguard the vulnerable segments of society and ensure fair compensation, irrespective of varying state-specific pay structures. While acknowledging the economic challenges posed by inflation and currency devaluation, NLC stressed the dire consequences of underpaying workers, particularly amid rising costs of living.
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Furthermore, NLC condemned government policies exacerbating economic hardships, including fuel subsidy removal and tariff hikes, which disproportionately affect the most vulnerable. The statement warned of the cascading effects of neglecting workers’ welfare, highlighting the pivotal role of workers’ wages in driving economic activity.
In conclusion, NLC issued a fervent appeal to governors to reassess their stance and prioritize the nation’s well-being over narrow interests. The call to action underscores the imperative of addressing systemic issues and fostering a fair and equitable society where the dignity of labor is upheld and economic prosperity is inclusive.
