Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress have called for the urgent review of the N70,000 minimum wage as the country celebrates the Workers Day today
This comes just as Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, said the legislative and executive arms of government would not shy away from its responsibility.
He says “ we will not shirk our responsibility to work together” to address workers’ concerns and create opportunities for growth and prosperity.
However, organized labour leaders across the country said workers were worse off since the emergence of President Bola Tinubu, despite his assurances that he would not only pay the workers a minimum wage but “a living wage.”
*Key Demands:*
– *Upward Review of Minimum Wage*: Labour leaders insist that the current minimum wage is inconsequential and demands a living wage that provides for basic human needs.
– *Improved Welfare*: Workers are calling for better working conditions, healthcare, education, and affordable housing.
– *Protection of Workers’ Rights*: Labour unions are demanding protection from harassment, intimidation, and arbitrary arrests.²
*Challenges:*
– *Inflation*: The current inflation rate of 33.2% has significantly reduced the purchasing power of workers’ wages.
– *Unemployment*: Mass layoffs and job insecurity are exacerbating the economic hardship faced by workers.
– *Poor Labour Protections*: Weak enforcement of labour laws and lack of job security are major concerns.³
*Government Response:*
– *Senate President’s Assurance*: Senate President Godswill Akpabio has assured that the legislative and executive arms of government will work together to address workers’ concerns.
– *Minimum Wage Implementation*: Some states have implemented the N70,000 minimum wage, but many workers are yet to receive the new wage.
