By Janet Bassey (Governance Reporter)
As the organised Labour gets set to commence an indefinite strike action on Monday following the inability of government to implement an agreeable minimum wage one year after fuel subsidy removal, the federal government has advised the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to immediately shelve the proposed action, insisting that the economic condition of the citizens will be worsened.
Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon Nkeiruka Onyejoecha, said on Friday that the decision by Labour to embark on a nationwide strike is not in the best interest of the country and its people.
Onyejiocha in a statement by her Special Adviser on Media, Emameh Gabriel, said that the “government has consistently demonstrated commitment and goodwill throughout the negotiations with organised labour.”
The Minister explained that the government’s proposals were carefully crafted, taking into account the country’s economic realities and incorporating innovative solutions. The proposals, she said, include a comprehensive package featuring a wage increase to N60,000 for federal workers, the introduction of CNG-fueled buses, and enhanced financial access for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
She said the government has further pledged investments in strategic sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, education, healthcare, and many others that are already in the pipeline. The Minister warned that any new minimum wage must not lead to widespread job losses, particularly in the Organised Private Sector, which employs the bulk of the nation’s workforce.
“This sector is crucial to the country’s economic growth and stability. The government’s stance is rooted in a deep understanding of the negotiations, demonstrating its dedication to finding a balance between the needs of workers and the economic realities of the country", She said, adding that, “The goal is to establish a minimum wage that is not only realistic but also sustainable, avoiding any potentially detrimental consequences for the economy.
According to Onyejiocha, “By adopting this approach, the government aims to safeguard the interests of both workers and employers, ensuring that any agreement reached is mutually beneficial and does not jeopardise the country’s economic progress. This balanced stance is crucial for maintaining harmony in the workforce and driving national growth".
She expressed disappointment that, in a surprising turn of events, organised labour abruptly exited the negotiations on Friday, despite the government’s flexibility in rescheduling the meeting from Monday to Friday, May 31st, to accelerate the talks.
“Labour unions remained adamant in their demand for a staggering 1,547% wage increase, after the government’s proposed 100% increase, accompanied by various incentives for workers.
“It is widely acknowledged that the labour unions’ demands are unrealistic, given the country’s current economic position. The government takes into account the nation’s fiscal constraints and the need for sustainable economic growth. In contrast, labour’s demands seem disconnected from economic realities, potentially jeopardising the very gains they seek to achieve.”
“The government’s willingness to engage in dialogue and its demonstrated flexibility in the negotiations underscore its commitment to finding a mutually beneficial solution. However, labour’s inflexibility and unrealistic expectations may hinder the progress made thus far, ultimately harming the workers they represent and the nation as a whole,” the minister added.
The Minister, however, urged the unions to reconsider their decision and continue engaging in constructive dialogue to find a solution that benefits all, adding that “strike will disproportionately harm the most vulnerable segments of our society.”
Onyejiocha however advised the NLC and the TUC to continue to respect the principles of social dialogue, engaging in good faith rather than embark on strike. NNL.
