The Federal Government has urged organized labor to remain patient and patriotic as negotiations for a new national minimum wage continue.
The appeal was made by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mrs Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, in a statement released on Wednesday by Mr Olajide Oshundun, the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations.
During the recent meeting of the Tripartite Committee on the Minimum Wage, the government proposed an increase to N60,000 per month.
However, this offer was rejected by organized labour, which countered with a demand for N494,000, reflecting a significant gap between the two positions.
Minister Onyejeocha emphasized the government’s commitment to securing a fair and realistic wage for Nigerian workers, while also highlighting the economic constraints currently facing the nation.
She noted that Nigeria is still grappling with the aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global economic challenges.
“We appeal to organized labour and other relevant stakeholders to be considerate and patriotic in their demands, recognizing that our economy is still recovering from the devastating effects of the pandemic and other global economic shocks,” Onyejeocha stated.
She stressed that the government remains dedicated to prioritizing the well-being of all Nigerians through its economic policies.
The minister called for a demonstration of patriotism and understanding, especially during this critical period of economic revitalization under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
She acknowledged the complexity and multifaceted nature of the economic challenges facing Nigerians and urged for a collective effort from all stakeholders to address and overcome these issues.