Despite ongoing negotiations by the Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage, the Federal Government has stated that workers will not be disadvantaged. The new minimum wage will become effective from May 1st, 2024.

Minister of State for Labour, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, made this announcement at the May Day celebration in Abuja. She acknowledged that the new minimum wage was not ready for implementation on May 1st, but emphasized that extensive consultations are underway to finalize the document.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) have previously called for an immediate upward review of wages. Recently, Organized Labour proposed a new minimum wage of N615,000, citing rising economic challenges and the high cost of living.

The current minimum wage of N30,000 has been deemed inadequate, and labor unions have expressed concern that not all governors are adhering to the existing wage award, which expired in April.

The Minimum Wage Act of 2019, signed by former President Muhammadu Buhari, requires a review every five years to align with current economic realities. CONTINUE READING