As Nigeria initiates zonal public hearings for the establishment of a new minimum wage, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) chapters in Ogun and Katsina states have voiced a significant call for the minimum wage to remain on the exclusive legislative list.
The hearings, aimed at gathering input from various stakeholders regarding adjustments to the national minimum wage in light of current economic realities, commenced with notable declarations from TUC representatives.
Akeem Lasisi, Chairman of the Ogun State TUC, refrained from specifying the exact figure proposed for the new minimum wage but stressed the importance of adhering to the International Labour Organisation’s conventions on labour remuneration. Lasisi emphasized the removal of the clause stipulating that the minimum wage affects only employers with 50 workers and urged compliance with Convention 131 of the International Labour Organisation.
Similarly, Husseini Hamisu, Chairman of the Katsina State NLC, affirmed the council’s participation in the public hearing, highlighting their advocacy for a suitable minimum wage for workers and the retention of the national minimum wage on the exclusive list.
Other state TUC chairmen, such as Muntari Lawal of Katsina State and Muritala Olayinka of Kwara State, echoed the sentiment, advocating for the minimum wage to be determined by the Federal Government and cautioning against delayed implementation.
In response to the demands, Sokoto State Commissioner for Information, Sambo Danchadi, indicated the state government’s deliberation on whether the minimum wage should be moved to the concurrent list, while Kano State Commissioner of Information, Baba Dantiye, stated that the issue would be brought before the State Executive Council for discussion.
Labor leaders from Kebbi, Bayelsa, Benue, Ekiti, Rivers, and Delta also confirmed their participation in the hearings, expressing readiness to present their proposals to the committee.
In anticipation of the zonal meetings, Murtala Usman, Chairman of the Kebbi State NLC, affirmed their preparedness and eagerness to engage in discussions regarding the new minimum wage.
With these developments, stakeholders are actively engaging in the dialogue surrounding the national minimum wage, advocating for equitable remuneration and emphasizing the importance of considering diverse economic realities across the states.
