The President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, conveyed his firm belief that the negotiation process for a new minimum wage between the Federal Government will reach its conclusion before March of this year.
In a recent interview with him, Ajaero provided insights into the ongoing discussions and the pivotal steps that lie ahead. Ajaero revealed that the Federal Government, through a formal letter, had requested organized labour to furnish names for the new minimum wage committee.
Having submitted the list to the government last year, Ajaero clarified that the subsequent phase involves the constitution of the committee. Only at this juncture can the union engage in negotiations with the government to finalize the terms of the new minimum wage.
The urgency of the matter stems from the fact that the existing minimum wage is slated to expire by March this year. Ajaero expressed optimism that the negotiation process would be successfully concluded before the impending deadline. Both parties are actively expediting the process to collaboratively address the interests of the Nigerian workforce.
Touching upon the wage award made by the Federal Government to the Nigerian workforce, Ajaero mentioned that, currently, only one month’s payment has been disbursed. However, he reassured workers that the complete release of the awarded wages is anticipated by the end of January this year.
