FG, Labour Agree on Daily Meetings to Resolve Minimum Wage Dispute

In response to the nationwide strike declared by the Organised Labour to press for a new National Minimum Wage, the Federal Government of Nigeria convened a crucial meeting on Monday, June 3, 2024, at the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

The meeting aimed to address the ongoing strike and reach a consensus on the National Minimum Wage.

Key Resolutions from the Meeting

1. Commitment to a Higher Minimum Wage: The President of Nigeria, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, reaffirmed his commitment to establishing a National Minimum Wage that exceeds ₦60,000. This is a significant step towards addressing the demands of the labour unions.
2. Daily Meetings for a Week: In pursuit of an agreeable National Minimum Wage, the Tripartite Committee is scheduled to meet daily for the next week. These meetings are expected to facilitate thorough discussions and expedite the decision-making process.
3. Labour’s Consideration of Presidential Commitment: The leadership of the Organised Labour has agreed to convene a meeting of its organs immediately. This meeting will focus on considering the President’s commitment to a higher minimum wage and determining the next steps.
4. Protection Against Victimization: Both parties have assured that no worker will be victimized as a result of participating in the industrial action. This resolution aims to ensure that workers’ rights are protected during this period of negotiation.

Background

The nationwide strike, initiated on June 3, 2024, followed the withdrawal of Labour from the negotiation table by the Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage.

The strike aimed to compel the government to address the pressing issue of low wages amidst rising living costs.

The intervention by the leadership of the National Assembly on June 2, 2024, paved the way for the crucial meeting between the Federal Government and Organised Labour.

Signed by:

For the Federal Government of Nigeria:

• Mohammed Idris – Minister of Information and National Orientation
• Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha – Minister of State for Labour and Employment

For the Organised Labour:

• Joe Ajaero – President, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC)
• Festus Osifo – President, Trade Union Congress (TUC)