The President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Festus Osifo, has clarified that the proposed N250,000 minimum wage is not set in stone and is open to negotiation. In an interview on Channels TV’s Sunrise Daily, Osifo emphasized that the organized labour’s goal is to establish a reasonable minimum wage that both parties can agree on.
Osifo explained that the earlier nationwide strike was prompted by the federal government’s refusal to negotiate beyond the proposed N60,000, leaving labour no choice but to take industrial action. However, during their meeting with the tripartite committee, the unions discussed other issues, including the government’s efforts to ease doing business in Nigeria and prevent companies from exiting the country.
The TUC President highlighted the need for the government to address the issue of companies exiting Nigeria, citing examples of Guinness and Kimberly Clark. He emphasized that these decisions did not happen overnight and that the government should take steps to mitigate these exits.
Osifo’s statement underscores the importance of flexibility in negotiations and the need for a reasonable minimum wage that reflects economic realities and the cost of living. The government and organized labour must continue to negotiate in good faith to reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
This development suggests a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue, and both parties must seize this opportunity to find a solution that benefits all. By working together, Nigeria can establish a minimum wage that promotes economic growth, social justice, and improved living standards for workers.
