On Thursday, President Bola Tinubu elaborated on his decision to engage in negotiations for the new national minimum wage, citing the economic difficulties faced by many Nigerians and the urgent need for relief.
In a statement released by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity, it was detailed that President Tinubu met with leaders from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
During this meeting, he increased the federal government’s offer on the national minimum wage from N62,000 to N70,000. He also assured that this wage would be reviewed after three years, rather than the previously proposed five years.
President Tinubu addressed the Labour leaders, stating: “I have listened to all your presentations. You came here to advocate for your members.
These are challenging times globally, and if you examine my record, you’ll find I have always addressed workers’ issues. I am committed to all of you in leadership because without you, this role is incomplete.”
He continued, “You have influenced our thinking, and we have reassessed our position. After reviewing the tripartite committee’s reports and consulting extensively, I decided to propose this adjustment.
We are navigating the same economy and country, and despite our different circumstances, we are one family that must support each other.”
President Tinubu emphasized the importance of considering the broader economic context, likening it to driving with awareness of speed limits and traffic conditions.
He advocated for a review period of three years, asserting, “Two years is too short; three years is appropriate for a review. I am committed to ensuring that no federal employee earns less than N70,000. This will set the benchmark.”
He also highlighted the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure to enhance Nigerians’ quality of life and foster an inclusive economy.
Plans to reduce transportation costs through Compressed Natural Gas-powered buses were announced, with a promise to deploy these buses nationwide.
Additionally, President Tinubu addressed the entitlements of members of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities and Allied Institutions (NASU), urging the Ministries of Finance and Budget & Economic Planning to work towards clearing the backlog.
Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, expressed gratitude to the President for his dedication to resolving the issues and for scheduling multiple meetings to address the initial disagreements.
He commended the President’s efforts to unite various stakeholders for the benefit of the economy and democracy.
Both Comrade Joe Ajaero, President of the NLC, and Comrade Festus Osifo, President of the TUC, thanked President Tinubu for his engagement and for rescheduling official commitments to attend the meetings. They praised his clear commitment to the welfare of Nigerian workers.
