The Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria expressed concern over the delayed negotiations on a new minimum wage and urged the Federal Government to accelerate the process. TUC President, Comrade Festus Osifo, emphasized the need for swift action, indicating that a new minimum wage may not be implemented before the end of May.
Highlighting disparities in wage payment across states, TUC singled out Delta, Imo, and Benue from the Niger Delta region for failing to disburse wage awards or provide palliatives to workers despite significant federal allocations. Additionally, TUC called on the Federal Government to promptly release wage awards for March and April 2024 to alleviate economic hardships faced by federal workers.
Osifo underscored the vital role of empowering the working class in stimulating economic growth, stressing the importance of timely wage payments. TUC also urged a review of outdated labor laws and demanded representation in committees tasked with implementing policy changes, such as the Stephen Orosaye’s report.
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The organization lamented the lukewarm response of certain state governments to wage payments and the distribution of palliatives, citing Benue, Anambra, and Delta among others for inadequate action despite substantial revenue. TUC urged these states to implement sustainable solutions to address economic challenges.
Moreover, TUC criticized the unilateral increase in electricity tariffs by the Federal Government, calling for stakeholder engagement before such decisions are made. The organization highlighted the impact of insecurity on agricultural activities, warning of further price hikes unless the government addresses the issue.
Concerns were also raised regarding the delay in the operationalization of the Port Harcourt refinery, contributing to fuel shortages in parts of the country. TUC urged the government to expedite efforts to operationalize the refinery and address insecurity to mitigate economic hardships faced by Nigerians.
