x

NLC and TUC Plan Urgent Meeting on Minimum Wage and Bonus

Organized labor in Nigeria is gearing up to establish a firm stance on the suspension of civil servants’ wage awards. The federal and state governments have been cautioned to be prepared for an increase in the minimum wage, currently set at N30,000 per month. The looming discussions come amid budget allocations by the Federal Government, totaling N1tn for wage adjustments, promotion arrears, and severance benefits in 2024.

While the Federal Government appears proactive, many state governments have remained silent on addressing a new minimum wage. The current N30,000 minimum wage is set to expire at the end of March 2024. The Trade Union Congress (TUC) is contemplating an extended industrial action if the wage awards are not promptly paid by the government.

Tommy Etim, Deputy President of TUC, highlighted the potential for industrial action if payments are not made, emphasizing the importance of negotiations based on current socio-economic realities. Etim also stated that a new minimum wage would consider various factors like housing and transportation.

Amid concerns about states lagging behind in budget adjustments for the new wage, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) stressed that compliance becomes mandatory once the law is enacted. The NLC insisted that negotiations for the new minimum wage should reflect the current cost of living, addressing the challenges posed by the removal of subsidies on petroleum products.

The NLC President, Joe Ajaero, emphasized the need for a well-motivated and well-remunerated workforce, acknowledging the impact on productivity and national development. The NLC is pushing for negotiations that result in a living wage, covering the cost of living and allowing for savings.

Beyond wage discussions, attention has turned to the delayed release of wage awards. The NLC and TUC had previously warned against reneging on agreements, citing the effects of subsidy removal on workers. While the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation assures that wage awards will be disbursed soon, workers remain vigilant to hold the government accountable.

Amid these developments, various states are navigating their positions on the new minimum wage. Some have made provisions in their budgets, while others are yet to initiate negotiations or provide clarity on their stance. The situation underscores the intricate dynamics of wage negotiations and the challenges faced by both workers and governments in addressing economic realities.

Hot this week

IMC Commends Increased Participation in Climate Dialogue to Curb Environmental Degradation

By Achadu Gabriel, KadunaThe Interfaith Mediation Centre (IMC), in...

Julius Berger strengthens team unity with Cultural Day celebration

By Lucy OmakpoTop-tier engineering and construction company, Julius...

Residents decry rise in domestic violence after murder of Army Officer in A’ibom

By Ogenyi Ogenyi, UyoResidents of Uyo and other parts...

Tinubu Commends Governor Ododo for Upholding Sound Governance and Financial Discipline

By Noah Ocheni, AbujaPresident Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended...

Federal University Lokoja to Graduate 5,051 Students at 9th Convocation Ceremony

By Noah Ocheni, LokojaThe Federal University Lokoja (FUL) will...

Plateau APC Youths Commend Prof. Nentawe’s Humanitarian Initiatives

By Israel Adamu, JosThe All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth...

Delta APC Passes Confidence Vote, Endorses Tinubu, Oborevwori for 2027 Elections

By Anne AzukaThe All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta...

Manchester United Facing ‘Crisis’ Fears Amid Fresh Uncertainty Over Ruben Amorim’s Future

Manchester United are reportedly edging toward another managerial crisis...

Ritman varsity appoints new mgt team as pioneer VC bows out

By Ogenyi Ogenyi,UyoRitman University, a privately owned institution located...

Related Articles

Popular Categories

spot_imgspot_img