The Federal Government has assured workers in the country that the implementation of the new national minimum wage would still take effect from April 1.
The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mrs Nkeiruka Onyejeocha gave the assurance during the commemoration of the May Day celebration, on Wednesday in Abuja.
The theme of the 2024 May Day celebration is ’People First.’
Onyejeocha recalled that on Jan. 30, 2024, the Federal Government took a decisive step towards enhancing the welfare of Nigerian workers by inaugurating a 37-man Tripartite Committee on Minimum Wage.
According to her, this committee was tasked with the critical responsibility of recommending a realistic national minimum wage that aligns with our current economic landscape.
“Since then, the committee has been working tirelessly alongside Labour leaders to reach an agreement on a new National Minimum Wage that reflects the country’s economic realities.
“Although the committee could not reach a consensus at its last meeting before the May deadline.
“We want to reassure Nigerian workers that we are working diligently around the clock with organised labour to conclude negotiations and ensure a successful outcome.
“Our commitment is unwavering and the Nigerian workers should be rest assured that in spite of the short delay, the new minimum wage will take effect on April 1, 2024,” she said.
According to her, this government is receptive to the committee’s suggestion of transitioning beyond a mere minimum wage to a living wage that truly reflects the value of workers’ contributions.
Onyejeocha said it was unacceptable for any worker to toil tirelessly and still struggle to make ends meet, hence, the ongoing efforts by the federal government to pay Wage Award to workers and review of the National Minimum Wage by a tripartite Committee.
She further said this was to ensure that every worker received a fair living wage that would enable them to live with dignity, provide for their families, and contribute to the growth of the economy.
The minister also affirmed the government’s commitment to placing the needs and aspirations of workers at the forefront of the national agenda.
She said this was through the provision of fair and just working conditions which were not just ideals but basic human rights.
“This is because every worker deserves to work in an environment free from exploitation, discrimination, and oppression.
“We must, therefore, strive to create workplaces that foster dignity, respect, job security and inclusivity for all,” she said.
She urged all stakeholders to embrace a spirit of cooperation, understanding, and patriotism, coupled with diligence and increased productivity.
She added that by working together, we could lift our nation out of poverty and usher in an era of prosperity for workers and citizens alike.
“Rest assured that this government empathises with the struggles of workers and citizens and will not falter in its commitment to their well-being.
“I urge organised labour to foster a conducive environment that promotes constructive engagement and collaborative problem-solving for the benefit of all stakeholders and the nation as a whole,” she said.
NAN
