Nationwide Strike Over Minimum Wage to Commence Monday, June 3.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have declared an indefinite nationwide strike starting from midnight on Sunday, June 2, 2024, in response to the Federal Government’s refusal to increase the proposed minimum wage from N60,000. This announcement was made by NLC President Joe Ajaero during a press conference held at the Labour House in Abuja.
Ajaero, accompanied by TUC counterpart Festus Osifo, expressed grave concern and disappointment over the government’s failure to conclude and enact a new National Minimum Wage Act and to reverse the recent hike in electricity tariffs to N65/kWh. The labor leaders criticized the government for its lack of commitment and seriousness during negotiations, citing the absence of key officials at recent meetings as evidence of this disregard.
Key Points of Contention:
Minimum Wage Negotiations: The labor unions have been in discussions with the government to raise the national minimum wage. The government proposed N60,000, which labor dismissed as inadequate, especially in light of the current economic challenges. The unions initially demanded N497,000 but later reduced this to N494,000, which the government still found unfeasible.
Electricity Tariff Hike: The unions are demanding a reversal of the electricity tariff increase from N225/kWh to N65/kWh. They argue that the hike has further impoverished Nigerian workers and that the current tariff system, which categorizes consumers into bands, is unfair and discriminatory.
Labor’s Ultimatum and Actions:
- The unions issued a May 31 ultimatum for the government to address these issues but saw no significant progress.
- A nationwide protest was held on May 13 to draw attention to their demands.
- Despite these efforts, the government has not shown the necessary commitment to resolving these issues, prompting the declaration of the strike.
Statements from Labor Leaders:
- Ajaero stated, “Nigerian workers, who are the backbone of our nation’s economy, deserve fair and decent wages that reflect the current economic realities.”
- He emphasized that the government’s neglect of its responsibilities to the workforce is disheartening and unacceptable.
Planned Strike:
- The NLC and TUC have called for an indefinite strike starting on June 3, 2024.
- They urge all affiliates, civil society organizations, market men and women, and the general populace to prepare for decisive action.
- The strike aims to press home their demands for fair wages and reversal of the electricity tariff hike.
Recent Negotiation Breakdown:
- Recent talks between the government and labor on the minimum wage ended in a stalemate when the government’s offer of N60,000 was rejected by labor.
- Labor had initially demanded N497,000 but later reduced their demand to N494,000.
The announcement of the strike highlights the growing tensions between the Nigerian government and labor unions over wage issues and living conditions for workers. The NLC and TUC’s unified stance signifies their determination to ensure that the rights and welfare of Nigerian workers are prioritized and addressed.
