The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Federal Government (FG) have reached an agreement regarding the ongoing nationwide industrial strike in protest for demand of new workers minimum wage.
The National Minimum Wage Committee concluded its pivotal meeting on Monday evening, held at the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), the meeting began at 5pm and included key delegations from both the federal government and organized labour unions.
After intensive deliberations, the FG and NLC have reached an agreement.
The President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, has committed to establishing a national minimum wage that exceeds N60,000. This pledge underscores the government’s recognition of the need to improve the living standards of Nigerian workers amidst rising living costs.
To expedite the resolution, the Tripartite Committee will meet every day for the next week. This continuous engagement aims to arrive at a mutually agreeable figure for the new minimum wage, ensuring that the process is thorough and inclusive.
In acknowledgment of the President’s commitment, the organized labour unions, including the National Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), have agreed to immediately consult their members. This consultation will assess the government’s proposal and determine the next steps.
A critical component of the agreement is the assurance that no worker will be victimized due to their participation in the industrial action. This provision seeks to protect workers’ rights and ensure a fair negotiating environment.
Following the meeting, the NLC and TUC announced plans to convene later today to consult their members. The outcome of these consultations will influence their decision on whether to call off the ongoing nationwide strike or continue until a final agreement is reached.
The NLC and TUC’s decision to consult their members underscores the importance of collective input in labour negotiations. “Labour’s respect for the President’s commitment and their decision to consult their members demonstrates a responsible approach to this critical issue,” said a government spokesperson.
The government’s commitment to a wage increase above N60,000 is a significant step, reflecting the administration’s responsiveness to workers’ demands and economic realities. As the Tripartite Committee continues its daily meetings, there is cautious optimism that an agreeable resolution will be reached soon.
This development represents a crucial moment in Nigeria’s labour history, with both the government and labour unions working towards a solution that balances economic feasibility with the needs of workers. The next week of negotiations will be critical in determining the future of the national minimum wage and the well-being of Nigerian workers.
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