Labour to ensure swift implementation of N70,000 minimum wage by governors

Following the passage of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Amendment Act by the National Assembly, Nigerian labour unions have pledged to engage state governments to ensure the implementation of the new N70,000 minimum wage. The Trade Union Congress has warned states against any delays.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have expressed delight over the swift passage of the bill, which replaces the National Minimum Wage Act of 2019 and sets N70,000 as the new monthly national minimum wage.

READ ALSO: President Tinubu approves N70,000 minimum wage

President Bola Tinubu forwarded the revised wage bill to both houses of the National Assembly on Tuesday, and both the Senate and the House of Representatives then passed it. “We are delighted by the gesture of the Senate because it suggests sensitivity to the plight of our members,” stated Joe Ajaero, President of the NLC. In April 2024, the 2019 law came to an end. This indicates that we already owe money. The states ought to promptly as well as strictly adhere to the law.

With the words, “We are happy that the Senate was able to pass the National Minimum Wage Bill promptly,” Tommy Etim, National Vice President of TUC, cautioned states against putting off their plans. The President only needs to sign it into law for the implementation to start right away. Furthermore, the states shouldn’t put off implementing the policy due to socioeconomic difficulties and the necessity to end world hunger.

The governments of several states, notably Osun and Ekiti, have promised to pay the new minimum wage. “On minimum wage, once it becomes law, when the President signs it into law, all will be well,” stated Biodun Oyebanji, the governor of Ekiti State. The only thing I am certain of is that I am here to help. Let’s wait; everything will be OK when the moment is right.

Kolapo Alimi, the Osun State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, stated: “We will pay, but we will definitely be interested in collecting more money if the Federal Government is willing to give it to us.” It is a legal matter. It is non-negotiable once it is declared to be the minimum wage and supported by legislation.

Proofreading by Uchechi Ojo, Sub-editor at Neptune Prime.

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