Funmi Sesi, Chairperson of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Lagos State Council, emphasized the need for proper consultation and consideration of current economic realities in any discussion on a new national minimum wage.
Sesi made this point in an interview with reporters on Thursday, responding to reports of a proposed N100,000 minimum wage by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.
She insisted that wage determination must follow the established tripartite negotiation process involving labor, government, and employers.
According to her, the proposal cannot be unilaterally decided by governors without input from workers and other stakeholders.
“It has to be a tripartite process. This year, we are due for a renegotiation of the minimum wage. Why are they jumping the gun?” she asked.
The labour leader recalled that during the last wage negotiations, governors argued they could not pay more than N52,000, claiming higher wages would hinder developmental projects in their states.
She alleged that governors’ positions influenced the outcome of those negotiations, despite indications that the Federal Government was open to approving a higher figure.
“Before proposing N100,000, let’s ask the governors what they have been using their resources for.
“Have they provided security? Are infrastructure and welfare in place? Have they improved the living standards of their citizens?” Sesi queried.
She pointed out that rising living costs, high fuel prices, and inflation have significantly reduced workers’ purchasing power, making it essential to carefully assess economic indicators before fixing a new wage.
“We can no longer fill our vehicle tanks as before. People now prioritize movement because of fuel costs and other economic challenges.
“All these realities must be considered before deciding on the new minimum wage,” she said.
Sesi emphasized that labor would not accept any imposition of a wage figure without negotiation.
“You cannot decide and allocate money to workers as if it’s a gift. Workers’ representatives must be involved.
“Don’t do things behind our backs. Our voices must count,” she stated.
She urged the NGF and other stakeholders to allow the upcoming minimum wage review to proceed through dialogue and consensus.
“We need to talk, discuss, and agree collectively, using current economic indices to determine the appropriate wage.
“Some states are already paying above N100,000. Instead of discussing lower figures, the focus should be on improving workers’ welfare,” Sesi added.
She concluded that workers are central to Nigeria’s economy and deserve a wage that reflects current realities and ensures a decent standard of living.
