The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has raised concerns that the recent increase in petrol prices has rendered the proposed ₦70,000 minimum wage inadequate. Speaking at a two-day workshop titled Minimum Wage Implementation Workshop, Southern Zone, in Lagos, NLC President Joe Ajaero emphasized that the hike in fuel prices has eroded any benefits the new minimum wage might have offered.
Ajaero revealed that organized labour felt misled by President Bola Tinubu into accepting the ₦70,000 wage without realizing the full impact of rising petrol costs. He recalled that during negotiations with the President, labour was offered a higher wage of ₦250,000 but rejected it due to concerns about the economic consequences of simultaneous salary increases and petrol price hikes.
According to Ajaero, the rising cost of living, combined with the increased pump price of petrol, has exacerbated poverty and suffering among Nigerians. He called on the government to address these economic challenges before the situation worsens.
He recounted a series of negotiations with the President, during which the issue of pump price increases and the inadequacy of salary adjustments were discussed. The NLC had warned that even a salary of ₦250,000 might not be sufficient to cover basic needs if fuel prices continue to rise.
The NLC president urged the government to prioritize the well-being of Nigerians by focusing on meaningful economic reforms and warned against distractions aimed at silencing labour’s concerns. He also pointed out that some private sector employers had opposed the proposed ₦70,000 minimum wage, making negotiations difficult.
In conclusion, Ajaero reiterated the NLC’s commitment to fighting for fair wages and improved living conditions for Nigerian workers in light of the ongoing economic challenges.
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