Labour Stands Firm on ₦250,000 Minimum Wage, Potential Strike Looms

The organised labour in Nigeria has firmly rejected the federal government’s proposals for a minimum wage of ₦62,000 or ₦100,000, labeling such offers as “starvation wages.” In an interview with Channels Television, Chris Onyeka, Assistant General Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), emphasized that their demand for a living wage remains at ₦250,000.

Onyeka made it clear that the labour unions would not settle for any wage below what they believe is necessary for Nigerian workers to sustain themselves. He stated, “We have never considered accepting ₦62,000 or any other wage that we know is below what we know can take Nigerian workers home. We will not negotiate a starvation wage.”

The NLC’s stance is driven by the current economic realities, including the costs of essential goods like rice, yam, and garri. Onyeka stressed that their demand of ₦250,000 is a significant concession and reflects the true cost of living in Nigeria.

The federal government has until midnight on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, to review and act on the labour union’s proposal. This follows a one-week grace period granted last Tuesday. If the government and the National Assembly do not meet the workers’ demands by the deadline, the organised labour will convene to decide on resuming the nationwide strike.

Onyeka reiterated the urgency of the situation, noting, “The Federal Government and the National Assembly have the call now. If after tomorrow we have not seen any tangible response from the government, the organs of the organised labour will meet to decide on what next.”

Should the government persist with the ₦62,000 offer, Onyeka indicated that the labour unions are prepared to lift the pause on the indefinite strike. This steadfast position underscores the labour unions’ commitment to securing a fair and livable wage for Nigerian workers.