Organized labor has issued a deadline to the Federal Government, demanding the conclusion of minimum wage negotiations by May 31, threatening nationwide industrial action if the deadline is not met.
At the May Day celebration held at the Eagle Square in Abuja, labor reiterated its call for a minimum wage of N615,000 and presented an 18-point demand to the government. The demand included the completion of minimum wage negotiations by May 31 and a threat to shut down the country if the government fails to comply.
President Bola Tinubu pledged to improve workers’ welfare by working on a new minimum and living wage. However, labor leaders expressed skepticism about the government’s commitment to addressing their demands.
The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) emphasized the urgent need for a new minimum wage, pointing out that the previous minimum wage of N30,000 expired on April 18. They demanded a two-year lifespan for the new National Minimum Wage Act, with automatic adjustments triggered by inflation exceeding 7.5%.
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The labor leaders condemned the recent increase in electricity tariffs and demanded a reversal within one week. They also called for action to address the energy crisis, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the government and the people to ensure equitable access to energy.
In addition to their demands on wages and energy, labor leaders addressed issues of insecurity and responsible leadership. They called for a rethink of the security approach, involving communities for greater safety, and emphasized the need for leaders to prioritize the needs of the people above all else.
Furthermore, labor presented an 18-point demand to the government, including the restraint of violence in civic engagement, reversal of the electricity tariff hike, and implementation of a National Minimum Pension.
Overall, labor emphasized the importance of addressing the pressing issues facing Nigerian workers and urged the government to take immediate action to improve their welfare and address the challenges confronting the nation.
Source: VanguardNGR