On Tuesday, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) issued a stark warning of a potential month-long nationwide shutdown in response to proposed legislative changes by the National Assembly aimed at deregulating the national minimum wage.
NLC President Joe Ajaero delivered this ultimatum during discussions at the 67th Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association Annual General Meeting in Lagos. He vehemently opposed plans by a Joint Committee of the Senate, House of Representatives, and Judiciary to shift control over minimum wage from the Exclusive legislative list to the concurrent list. This move would grant state governors autonomy to determine wage rates without a national minimum standard.
Ajaero expressed deep concern over the implications, stating, “If such a law is enacted to the detriment of Nigerian workers, legislators themselves will face a shutdown; their drivers and aides will halt all movement for one month. Organised Labour adamantly rejects any attempt by governors and lawmakers to impose substandard wages, perpetuating poverty among citizens.”
Highlighting constitutional principles of equal pay for equal work, Ajaero criticized decentralizing wage determination, asserting it undermines equity and the rule of law. He emphasized that international standards recognize wage regulation as a national prerogative, not subject to regional disparities.
In response to claims by some governors that financial constraints prevent compliance with a proposed N60,000 minimum wage, Ajaero challenged their leadership, urging them to prioritize governance effectiveness over rhetoric. He emphasized that while state revenues vary, governance demands effective fiscal management, not excuses.
Ajaero also underscored NLC’s commitment to ensuring fair wages that sustain families amidst economic challenges. He criticized delays in addressing wage concerns, suggesting that proactive measures could have mitigated current economic hardships exacerbated by the removal of oil subsidies.
Meanwhile, Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Mr. Kingsley Chinda clarified that while there is a proposal to transfer minimum wage legislation to the concurrent list, discussions remain open, with varying opinions on the matter. He stressed the need for a national minimum living wage, leaving room for states and private firms to exceed but not undercut the established benchmark.
Chinda cautioned against decentralizing labour matters, warning it could weaken labour unions and diminish governmental accountability. He advocated for standardized labour dispute resolutions and maintained that international labour standards favor national, not regional, approaches to wage regulation.
The impending legislative decision continues to spark debate, with stakeholders emphasizing the critical importance of equitable wages and robust national standards in sustaining Nigeria’s workforce and economic stability.
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