Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has met with leaders of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) at the Presidential villa on Thursday, marking second meeting between the Federal Government and the organized labour in just seven days.
This meeting, highlighted the federal government’s ongoing engagement with labor leaders to address critical issues affecting workers nationwide.
The dialogue, described as constructive and forward-looking, is seen as a positive step towards fostering a harmonious relationship between the government and labor unions.
In the statement disseminated by the Special Adviser to the President on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, reflect the administration’s proactive approach in addressing labor concerns and enhancing the welfare of Nigerian workers.
“President Tinubu has approved a new minimum wage of N70,000 for Nigerian workers, with a commitment to review the national minimum wage law every three years. The President is also committed to providing 36 CNG-powered buses, each with a seating capacity of 100, to the TUC and NLC”, he stated
Consequentially, this initiative is expected to enhance transportation for union members and demonstrate the government’s commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions.
Furthermore, the President also emphasized his commitment to finding ways to support the private sector and state governments in meeting this new wage standard.
According to the President, “I have heard all your presentations. You came here with the intention to get something on behalf of your members. It has been tough globally.
“And if you review my track record, I have never been found wanting in ameliorating the problems of workers. I belong to the people and to all of you in leadership. Without you, this job is not interesting.
“You challenged the thinking faculty of leadership, and we have reviewed the position. I have consulted widely, and when the tripartite committee submitted their reports, I reviewed them again and started to think and rethink.
“Last week, I brought the workload to you because we have a timeline. We have a problem, and we recognize that you have a problem too. We are in the same economy. We are in the same country.
“We must look at the parameters of things. Here, I have a speed limit, and I must pay attention to traffic warnings; slippery when wet, curved roads, and be careful not to have an accident. That is why I went as far as having this meeting today.
“We are driving this economy together. Let us look at the tenure of review. Let us agree on that, and affirm three years. Two years is too short. We affirm three years. We will review.
“I am going to move from the tripartite committee. I am going to edge a little bit forward, looking at the review that we have done. Yes, no one in federal establishment should earn less than N70,000. So, we are going to benchmark at N70,000,’’ the President said.
Tinubu explained that renewing the hope of Nigerians extends to providing infrastructure that will improve their livelihoods and create an inclusive economy that all can participate and benefit.
The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, and that of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Comrade Festus Osifo, thanked President for creating time to host two meetings on the review of the national minimum wage.
The two labour leaders acknowledged that at the last meeting, the President directed the rescheduling of an official trip in order to attend the second meeting.
The labour leaders also expressed their appreciation to the President, applauding him of his clear show for commitment to the welfare of Nigerian workers.