President Tinubu Inaugurates Committee for National Minimum Wage Review

President Bola Tinubu has initiated steps for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s national minimum wage, aiming to increase it beyond the current N30,000 threshold. The President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, inaugurated a committee comprising representatives from the Federal Government, state governments, labour, and the organised private sector at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

In his address, President Tinubu urged the committee to utilize collective bargaining agreements during consultations to establish a viable wage structure for workers. He emphasized his commitment to fostering a motivated workforce and improving the welfare of Nigerian workers and the nation as a whole through the committee’s work.

The decision to review the national minimum wage follows public outcry following the removal of fuel subsidy on May 29, 2023. This move led to demands from Nigerians, especially the working population, for an increase in wages to offset the policy’s impact. In response, the Federal Government temporarily raised the minimum wage to N35,000 pending a comprehensive review of the wage policy.

President Tinubu commended the committee members for their selection to the Tripartite National Minimum Wage Committee, highlighting the importance of their role in renegotiating a new national minimum wage for Nigerian workers. He emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring a fair and decent living wage, particularly in light of the impending expiration of the current Minimum Wage Instrument.

The President stressed that the committee’s recommendations would be presented as an Executive Bill to the National Assembly for thorough legislative scrutiny before becoming law. He urged thoroughness and consideration of the economic impact in setting a new minimum wage that aligns with social justice and equity.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, reminded the committee of its crucial role in shaping the economic landscape and representing the hopes of millions of Nigerian workers. He acknowledged the economic challenges faced in the past year, particularly following the removal of fuel subsidy, which he described as a necessary step towards long-term fiscal sustainability.

Daily Post