The Nigerian Labour Congress Wednesday walked out of the Federal Government’s negotiation table after being offered #48,000 as a minimum wage for Nigerian workers.
Joe Ajaero, president of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and Tommy Okon, deputy president of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), represented the workers at the meeting.
Ajaero, speaking on behalf of the labour at a press conference, criticized the government’s proposed N48,000 wage, stating that it falls short of meeting workers’ needs. The NLC and TUC had proposed N615,500 as the minimum wage, citing the high cost of living. Ajaero highlighted the lack of transparency in the government’s offer and the disparity between proposed and prevailing standards.
He emphasized that accepting a lower wage would harm workers’ economic well-being and families. The labour leaders expressed disappointment in the negotiation process and urged the government to consider a fair wage that truly supports workers.
NLC president, Joe Ajaero, described the offer as a ridiculous deal. He further maintained that the federal government has till month’s end to come up with reasonable offers and that any deal below the 615,000 Naira proposed by the Union does not represent the interests of Nigerian workers.
