in a significant development, the federal government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has reached a crucial agreement with organised labour to address the ongoing minimum wage strike. The meeting, which took place on Monday, June 3rd, at the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, aimed to find a resolution to the contentious issues surrounding the new minimum wage and the recent electricity tariff hike.
SEE ALSO: Labour Party Advocates for Wage Negotiations Over Strikes to Avert Further Hardship
After extensive discussions, the federal government and organised labour agreed upon four key resolutions that will shape the future of the minimum wage in our beloved country. These resolutions are as follows:
President Tinubu’s Commitment:
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed his unwavering commitment to implementing a National Minimum Wage that surpasses the current N60,000 benchmark.
Tripartite Committee Meetings:
To arrive at a mutually agreeable National Minimum Wage, the Tripartite Committee, comprising representatives from the government, organised labour, and the private sector, will convene daily meetings for the upcoming week. This intensive collaboration aims to expedite the decision-making process and reach a consensus promptly.
Organised Labour’s Immediate Action:
Organised labour has been called upon to gather its organs without delay to deliberate on the government’s commitment.
Protection of Workers’ Rights:
In a reassuring move, it has been affirmed that no worker will face victimization or repercussions as a result of their participation in the industrial action.
SEE ALSO: NLC and TUC to Commence Indefinite Strike on June 3 Despite Last-Minute Pleas
The resolution was duly signed by esteemed representatives from both the federal government and organised labour. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, appended their signatures on behalf of the federal government. On the other hand, Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and Festus Osifo, the President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), represented the interests of organised labour.
As we move forward, it is crucial to acknowledge that the minimum wage discussions involve not only the government but also the private sector. Minister Idris emphasized that the current proposal of N494,000 put forth by organised labour could potentially strain the Nigerian economy and lead to significant job losses if implemented without careful consideration.
The agreement reached between the federal government and organised labour marks a significant step towards resolving the minimum wage strike and ensuring the welfare of Nigerian workers. As the Tripartite Committee embarks on intensive negotiations in the coming week, we remain hopeful that a fair and sustainable minimum wage will be established, benefiting both the workforce and the nation as a whole.
Stay tuned for further updates on this crucial matter that affects the lives of millions.
