NLC President Dismisses Tinubu’s Wage Hike as ‘Mischievous’
The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, has expressed skepticism and criticism regarding the recent announcement by the Federal Government of a salary increase ranging from 25% to 35% for civil servants.
Ajaero labeled the announcement as “mischievous,” highlighting that it doesn’t signify a genuine wage increment. Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily program, Ajaero questioned the timing of the announcement, especially as workers globally observed the 2024 Workers’ Day.
Emmanuel Njoku, a spokesperson for the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC), had disclosed the increment, effective from January 1st, 2024, encompassing various salary structures, including CONPSS, CONRAISS, CONPOSS, CONPASS, CONICCS, and CONAFSS.
Ajaero reiterated concerns about the expiration of the previous minimum wage of N30,000 on April 18, emphasizing the need for timely discussions and conclusions on a new minimum wage. Despite legislative actions by the National Assembly, discussions were stalled by the Federal Government’s failure to reconvene meetings.
Highlighting the inefficacy of the current minimum wage to sustain workers’ well-being, Ajaero underscored the discrepancy between the agreed living wage of N615,000 and the prevailing conditions faced by workers. He outlined the breakdown of essential expenses, including housing, electricity, utilities, and fuel, contributing to the proposed living wage.
Despite the inauguration of a Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage earlier in January, the government has yet to implement its recommendations, leaving workers in limbo regarding wage adjustments.
The NLC president’s remarks reflect broader discontentment within the labor force, urging swift action from the government to address wage disparities and ensure the economic welfare of Nigerian workers.