Some States Yet To Pay ₦30,000 Wage, ₦494,000 Highly Impossible – Minister

The Minister of Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has called on Organised Labour to cease its current industrial action, which has had a substantial impact on economic activities nationwide.

According to a report by Channels Television, she stressed that determining a new minimum wage is not solely the responsibility of the Federal Government; it necessitates the involvement of state governments and the Organised Private Sector.

Onyejeocha underscored the significance of the tripartite committee in ensuring equitable agreements and their subsequent implementation.

She acknowledged the difficulties faced by certain states in meeting the previously established ₦30,000 minimum wage and reiterated that the Federal Government does not possess the unilateral authority to enforce wage decisions.

Expressing reservations about the proposed ₦494,000 minimum wage, she viewed it as impractical for the country, citing potential negative impacts on businesses and the risk of substantial job losses.

Onyejeocha pointed out the notable economic repercussions of the ongoing strike, affecting various sectors such as businesses, airports, universities, hospitals, and power supply over the past 24 hours.

Highlighting the hardships experienced by Nigerians during this period, Onyejeocha appealed to Organised Labour to reassess its position, halt the strike, and return to the negotiating table for more pragmatic discussions on an appropriate wage for Nigerian workers.

SOURCE: Opera News