The labour union has called on President Bola Tinubu to personally intervene in the ongoing negotiations for a new minimum wage. The union’s leaders believe that the President’s involvement could help avert the planned indefinite strike scheduled to begin on June 3.
The labour union had previously given the government an ultimatum to decide on the new minimum wage by May 31, 2024. However, negotiations between the federal government and organised labour ended in a deadlock, with the government and organised private sector offering N60,000, which the union deemed unacceptable.
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Sources within the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress revealed that the union is seeking a six-digit minimum wage, citing President Tinubu’s promise of a “living wage” during his inauguration and Workers’ Day speeches. The union argues that the government’s proposal falls short of this promise.
The labour union’s demand comes as President Tinubu has hinted at a potential clash with the 36 governors over the federal government’s lawsuit against them. The President emphasized the need for governors to prioritize local communities and address the neglect of local governments.
The labour union’s call for President Tinubu’s intervention highlights the urgency of the minimum wage negotiations and the need for a resolution to avoid a nationwide strike.