The Nigerian federal government has expressed concerns over the demand of organized labor for a N494,000 national minimum wage, stating that it has the potential to disrupt the economy and put the welfare of over 200 million Nigerians at risk.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, shared this viewpoint in response to the planned strike announced by labor unions following failed negotiations on the minimum wage and electricity tariff hike.
In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim, the minister urged organized labor to return to the negotiating table and consider reasonable and realistic wage proposals for their members.
The statement emphasized that the proposed N494,000 minimum wage, which would result in a cumulative N9.5 trillion bill, is not financially sustainable and could have adverse effects on the economy.
The federal government had offered a N60,000 minimum wage, reflecting a 100% increase from the previous minimum wage in 2019. This offer had been accepted by the organized private sector, a member of the negotiation committee.
The minister highlighted the government’s concern for over 200 million Nigerians and the need to balance the welfare of workers with the overall health of the economy.
While acknowledging the importance of adequate remuneration for Nigerian workers, the government emphasized the potential job losses that could occur, particularly in the private sector, if the demanded wage is implemented.
The minister called on organized labor to reconsider their demands and engage in further negotiations based on affordability, sustainability, and the well-being of the nation.
Until a new national minimum wage is introduced, the current wage award of N35,000 for federal workers will continue, demonstrating the government’s commitment to worker welfare.
