Organised labour insists a new National Minimum Wage must be negotiated as a matter of urgency.
Nigeria’s two labour centres, the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress, call on the government to ensure a new minimum wage is put in place by March, 2024.
In separate new year messages, the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress appraise their interface with the government since the removal of fuel subsidy in May, 2023.
The Trade Union Congress in its new year message to.workers is unequivocal that all agreements, including the payment of the monthly N35000 wage award to public servants should be implemented at all levels of government.
While Mr. President’s assurance of a living wage excites the people, the Congress lists 10 demands it wants government to meet.
Top on its list is the realisation of a new minimum wage before the current one expires in March.
In a telephone chat with TVC News, the Secretary General of TUC, Nuhu Toro, says 2024 remains a defining moment for organised labour.
He says the two labout centres needs the support of Nigerian workers
TUC also seeks a halt to rising inflation, which has hit 28.2 per cent.
It calls on the three tiers of government to exercise some restraint in obtaining loans.
Other issues are a halt to naira devaluation which it believes is precipitating the collapse of local industries, end to sale of Naira and availability of cash in banks for depositors.
Of more importance to the congress is the security of Nigerians.
Like many Nigerians, TUC is disturbed by the renewed attacks on villages and communities, particularly the recent genocide in parts of Plateau state.
Among TUC’s 10-point demand is the need for the government to engage in dialogue with aggrieved groups representing nationalities which feel marginalised.
