NLC, TUC, Set To Take Decision On Nationwide Strike After Rejecting FG’s Minimum Wage Offer

Crucial discussions on the new national minimum wage between the Federal Government and Organised Labour are set to conclude today, with the final decision resting on President Bola Tinubu.

The negotiations have seen widely varying proposals, with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) leaders setting a Monday deadline for resolution.

Last Friday, the Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage concluded its deliberations, with the government and the Organised Private Sector agreeing on ₦62,000. However, labour unions have steadfastly pushed for a ₦250,000 minimum wage, a figure significantly higher than the government’s proposal.

The Nigeria Governors Forum has expressed concerns, stating that any wage above ₦60,000 would be unsustainable for state administrations. This highlights the ongoing struggle to balance worker demands with governmental fiscal capabilities.

Labour representatives disclosed that the outcome now depends on President Tinubu’s response to the committee’s recommendations.

In a notable development, NLC President Joe Ajaero and other senior union leaders are attending an international labour conference organized by the International Labour Organisation in Geneva, Switzerland.

Labour plans to convene a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting upon the leaders’ return. At this meeting, the president’s feedback will determine the future course of action, including potential strike measures.

One labour leader told Punch, “We have submitted the report to the president and we are waiting for his decision. That is the most important thing and that is what we are all waiting for.

“As it stands, some of us are on the way to Geneva for the ILO conference. Some of us are going today (Sunday), some have gone already, while others will join later. Before we can even hold a NEC meeting, we must return from Geneva first. Also, we are trying to be careful so the government won’t say Labour is inciting citizens against the government. You know they are in charge of the military, so we are trying to be careful about that. This is why we are waiting.”

Regarding Monday’s strike ultimatum, another source within the NLC said, “We have sent a report to the committee and we are expecting the president to act on it. We should hold a National Executive Council meeting regarding the ultimatum when we return from Geneva. It is very important for us to be there, but right now, we are patiently waiting for the decision of Mr. President.”