George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), has called on organized labour to ensure that state governments comply with the minimum wage law. Akume highlighted the need for labour leaders to take an active role in making sure the law is followed, rather than relying solely on the government.
During a two-day Pre-retirement Summit organized by XEM Consulting Ltd, Akume, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the General Services Office at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), emphasized the importance of enforcing laws related to minimum wage and pensions.
In his speech, Akume stated, “While we are discussing the payment of pensions, I urge labour leaders to take responsibility for enforcing compliance with these laws. It’s not enough to just complain about the lack of implementation. Labour leaders need to step in and ensure that the relevant stakeholders are following the laws.”
He added, “The Federal Government can create policies and issue directives, but it is up to those who are responsible for monitoring the implementation to ensure that there are consequences for non-compliance. Whether it is related to minimum wage or pensions, the most effective law is one that can be enforced. If a law cannot be enforced, it is essentially meaningless.”
Akume’s comments underscore the ongoing struggle between state governments and labour organizations over the implementation of the minimum wage law. The law, which mandates a minimum wage for workers, has faced resistance in some states, leading to discrepancies in wage payments across the country.
Organized labour, including unions and labour leaders, plays a crucial role in advocating for workers’ rights and ensuring that laws designed to protect these rights are upheld. By actively monitoring and enforcing compliance, labour leaders can help bridge the gap between policy and practice, ensuring that workers receive the wages and benefits they are entitled to.
The Pre-retirement Summit, where Akume delivered his remarks, was a platform for discussing various issues related to retirement and pension management. The event brought together experts, policymakers, and labour representatives to share insights and strategies for improving the retirement process for workers.
One of the key takeaways from Akume’s speech is the emphasis on the collaborative role of labour leaders in enforcing compliance with labor laws. This approach highlights the shared responsibility between the government and labour organizations in ensuring that workers’ rights are protected and that laws are implemented effectively.
In addition to his call for labour leaders to take an active role in enforcement, Akume also pointed out the importance of having clear and enforceable laws. He noted that creating laws that cannot be enforced undermines their effectiveness and leaves workers vulnerable to exploitation.
By working together, the government and organized labour can create a more robust system for protecting workers’ rights. This collaborative effort can help ensure that laws related to minimum wage and pensions are not only implemented but also adhered to, providing a more secure and fair working environment for all employees.
