The National Assembly is set to receive an executive bill proposing a new national minimum wage of ₦70,000, following a significant agreement reached between President Bola Tinubu and labor leaders.
This decision was made during a meeting at the Aso Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday, where representatives from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), led by their presidents Joe Ajaero and Festus Osifo, respectively, discussed the pressing need for higher remuneration for workers.
The new wage will replace the previous minimum wage of ₦30,000, which expired on April 18, 2024. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Information and Strategy, confirmed that the executive bill will be presented to lawmakers by Tuesday, emphasizing the government's commitment to ensuring that no federal employee earns less than the new benchmark.
During the meeting, President Tinubu acknowledged the concerns raised by labor leaders and reiterated his dedication to addressing workers' issues.
He stated, “I have heard all your presentations... I belong to the people and all of you in leadership.” The President proposed a review cycle for the minimum wage every three years, rather than the current five-year period, which was met with approval from labor representatives.
The discussions followed a period of negotiations initiated by the Tripartite Committee on the New National Minimum Wage, which had previously submitted conflicting figures to the President.
While the government and private sector proposed ₦62,000, labor unions initially demanded ₦250,000, citing inflation and economic hardship as key factors.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the agreement as a “happy day for Nigeria,” highlighting that it not only addresses the minimum wage but also includes commitments to pay withheld salaries for university staff and invest in infrastructure and renewable energy initiatives.
