FG Reacts as Labor Declares Indefinite Strike over Minimum Wage.

The Federal Government has requested that Organized Labor reconsider its decision to start an indefinite strike from Monday, June 3, 2024, in protest of the government’s refusal to increase the proposed minimum wage from N60,000.

According to Naija News, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, expressed disappointment during a joint speech with his Trade Union Congress (TUC) counterpart, Festus Osifo, over the government’s failure to finalize and enact a new National Minimum Wage Act and reverse the electricity tariff hike to N65/kWh.

Ajaero emphasized that the Friday meeting between the government and Labor highlighted the lack of seriousness and apparent disregard for the demands of Nigerian workers and citizens.

However, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Idris Mohammed, stated in an interview with PUNCH that Organized Labor should prioritize the interests of the masses. Mohammed, representing the Federal Government, urged Organized Labor to postpone the planned strike, emphasizing that establishing common ground was the purpose of the tripartite committee.

He urged the unions not to let their progress be undone, expressing optimism that an agreement could still be reached. Mohammed appealed to Labor, emphasizing that the government’s actions are in the best interest of Nigerians and that causing further problems should be avoided.

He emphasized the partnership between Labor and the Federal Government in advancing Nigeria towards prosperity.
“Our message is an appeal for Labour to cooperate with the government. This was the basis for establishing the tripartite committee comprising Organized Labour, sub-national entities, and the federal government, as the government sought to avoid unilateral decisions. The stance on the wage regime is not unilateral.

We anticipate Labor’s cooperation with the government and urge them not to strike, as it’s not the solution. Negotiations are ongoing, with the minister and stakeholders engaging with Labor, aiming to reach a consensus.”