Following the suspension of the Organised Labour’s indefinite strike, negotiations over a new minimum wage for Nigerian workers have resumed between the Federal Government, Labour representatives, and the private sector.
The Tripartite Committee on Minimum Wage reconvened at the Nicon Luxury Hotel in Abuja on Wednesday to continue discussions aimed at reaching a consensus on the wage issue.
Representatives from the Federal Government, including the Minister of Finance Wale Edun, Minister of Budget and National Planning Atiku Bagudu, and Minister of Labour Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, were present at the meeting.
Additionally, representatives of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and the Head of Service of the Federation attended the gathering.
On the side of Organised Labour, Nigeria Labour Congress President Joe Ajaero, and Trade Union Congress President Festus Osifo were among those present.
Although state governors were not in attendance, the Director General of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Abdulateef Shittu, participated in the meeting.
The decision to suspend the strike on Tuesday was contingent upon the committee meeting daily for one week until an agreement is reached on a new minimum wage.
President Bola Tinubu urged the committee to expedite the process, emphasizing his commitment to a wage above N60,000.
Meanwhile, the TUC and NLC expressed openness to negotiations, indicating that they were not rigidly fixed on their initial demand of N494,000.
With negotiations now back on track, stakeholders are optimistic about the possibility of reaching a mutually beneficial agreement that addresses the concerns of both workers and employers.
The resumption of talks marks a significant step toward resolving the wage impasse and fostering a conducive environment for sustainable economic growth and development.
Stay tuned for updates as negotiations progress.