President Bola Tinubu has assured the organized labor that his administration will prioritize a national living wage over a minimum wage.
The President gave the assurance on Wednesday during a colorful ceremony to mark the 2024 May Day celebration at the Eagle Square, Abuja.
Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented him at the event, Tinubu applauded the Nigerian workers for their contributions to ongoing efforts by the government to save the nation’s economy.
He described workers as “an indispensable component of the nation’s engine” in the bid to build a just and progressive society.
President Tinubu assured the workers that their understanding, patience, commitment, and support in the course of implementing his administration’s policies and programs are not taken for granted.
“Great Nigerian workers, your role as an indispensable component of the nation’s engine cannot be overstated by any government if the quest for a just and progressive society is to be realised. Therefore, I extend my most heartfelt congratulations to you on this very important celebration.
“I do not take for granted the understanding, patience, commitment, and support you have shown throughout the implementation of this government’s policies and programmes aimed at positively transforming our great nation. Your contributions have played a significant role in our efforts to rescue the economy since we came on board“.
Addressing the issue of wages, Tinubu hinted at his administration’s readiness to consider a national living wage that would address the living conditions of workers. He mentioned the Tripartite Committee on Minimum Wage set up by the federal government and expressed openness to their suggestion of a living wage.
He said, “The committee’s mandate was to provide counsel and suggest a national minimum wage that aligns with our current economic conditions. Since then, the committee, in collaboration with labour leaders, has been diligently working towards proposing a new National Minimum Wage.
“Unfortunately, despite concerted efforts, the committee was unable to reach a consensus at its last meeting. This shall be resolved soon and I assure you that your days of worrying are over. Indeed, this government is open to the committee’s suggestion of not just a minimum wage but a living wage.”