New minimum wage to be implemented soon- Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has reassured Nigerian workers that a new minimum wage will soon be implemented to alleviate the challenges caused by the removal of fuel subsidy.

Speaking at the 2024 May Day Commemoration in Abuja, President Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, emphasized the importance of a living wage for workers to fulfill their duties to the government.

Despite the inability of the 37-member tripartite committee to reach a consensus on the new minimum wage at their last meeting, the president called for cooperation and harmony between the government and organized labor.

He urged labor unions to work together with the government to foster national development.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) had called on the administration of President Bola Tinubu to hasten the upward review of wage awards.

The organized labor demanded N615,000 as the new minimum wage for workers to cope with the many economic realities and high cost of living in Nigeria.

Addressing the gathering, Nigeria Labour Congress President Comrade Joe Ajaero urged the federal government to establish a decent minimum wage that provides hope for Nigerian workers.

Similarly, Trade Union Congress President Festus Osifo criticized the high electricity tariffs, calling for their reversal within a week. He expressed dissatisfaction with the persisting issues in the power sector despite privatization.

Dr. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, acknowledged the significance of workers’ contributions and affirmed the government’s commitment to their welfare.

She confirmed that the minimum wage would come into effect in May 2024.

(FRCN)