In the ongoing deliberations over a new minimum wage for Nigerian workers, organised labour has emphasized flexibility regarding the proposed figures, asserting that no amount is considered sacrosanct.
The tripartite committee tasked with recommending a new minimum wage recently concluded its discussions, presenting two divergent figures to President Bola Tinubu for consideration. While the government and organised private sector advocate for N62,000, organised labour has proposed N250,000.
Festus Osifo, President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), highlighted this flexibility during an appearance on Channels Television’s morning programme, on Friday.
He explained, “What we said is that for us when we give figures, there is always a room to meander, there is always a room for us to do some adjustment here and there.”
Osifo underscored the historical context, mentioning past industrial actions prompted by government reluctance to adjust proposed figures upward. “One of the reasons that led to that industrial action beyond the fact that there were also delays,” he added.
President Tinubu is expected to forward an executive bill to the National Assembly based on the committee’s recommendations.
Osifo expressed labour’s intent to influence this decision, stating they would advocate for the figure aligned with their proposal.
“We are not going to pre-empt the President, but we are making all efforts to justify why Tinubu should tilt towards the figure presented by the labour,” Osifo asserted.
He emphasized that if the final executive bill does not align with labour’s expectations, they would engage with lawmakers to secure a more favourable outcome.
Regarding Tinubu’s stance on affordability, expressed during a recent event in Abuja, Osifo acknowledged the President’s remarks but reiterated labour’s commitment to advocating for a figure that addresses workers’ economic realities.
“We will continue our advocacy until the Minimum Wage Act 2024 becomes law,” Osifo affirmed, hinting at potential further actions if necessary.
Meanwhile, President Tinubu’s statement emphasized fiscal prudence, asserting, “The minimum wage is going to be what Nigerians can afford, what you can afford and what I can afford.”
The impending legislative process promises continued debates as stakeholders navigate the delicate balance between economic feasibility and workers’ welfare.