MINIMUM WAGE: Reasons I intervene for the new negotiation__Tinubu
President Tinubu on National Minimum Wage Negotiations: Addressing Economic Challenges
On Thursday, President Bola Tinubu explained his intervention in the negotiations for the new national minimum wage, emphasizing the pressing economic difficulties faced by many Nigerians and the necessity for prompt relief.
The details were provided in a statement by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity.
During a meeting with the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, President Tinubu announced an increase in the federal government’s offer for the national minimum wage from N62,000 to N70,000. He also assured that this amount would be reviewed every three years instead of the previous five-year interval.
President Tinubu addressed the labour leaders, stating, “I have listened to your concerns. It has been a tough global environment. My record shows my dedication to addressing workers’ issues. We are all part of one community, facing the same economic realities. Despite our different circumstances, we must support each other.”
He acknowledged the challenges and emphasized the need for careful consideration of the situation, comparing the economy to driving on a road with various hazards that require attention to avoid accidents. He proposed a three-year review period for the minimum wage, moving beyond the recommendations of the tripartite committee, and setting a new benchmark of N70,000 for federal establishment employees.
President Tinubu also highlighted the government’s commitment to infrastructure improvements and creating an inclusive economy. He mentioned the introduction of Compressed Natural Gas-powered buses to reduce transportation costs and assured that these buses would be deployed nationwide. Additionally, he addressed the entitlements of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities and Allied Institutions (NASU), urging relevant ministries to clear the backlog.
Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, thanked President Tinubu for his leadership and efforts to resolve the wage negotiation impasse, referring to him as the “Father of the Nation.”
The presidents of the NLC and TUC, Comrade Joe Ajaero and Comrade Festus Osifo, respectively, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his commitment to workers’ welfare and for prioritizing the meetings to address the minimum wage issue.
