JUST IN: NLC Blasts Governors After Their New Demand Over Minimum Wage

The organized labor on Friday blasted state Governors advocating for minimum wage payments based on their states’ financial capacities, emphasizing that a national minimum wage is not arbitrary.

The Southern Governors’ Forum had suggested considering the cost of living and each state’s ability to pay when determining the new minimum wage.

At a meeting in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the Governors also proposed that each state negotiate wages with labor unions. However, labor representatives, including the NLC and the TUC, argued that this approach undermines the purpose of a national minimum wage and reflects a dictatorial attitude.

NLC spokesman Benson Upah noted the inconsistency in Governors’ arguments, pointing out that political office holders nationwide receive uniform salaries without contention. He criticized the double standards that benefit a privileged few while neglecting the majority.

Upah condemned the Governors’ lack of understanding of global best practices for national minimum wages, despite their frequent international travels. He attributed Nigeria’s poor governance and widespread suffering to this ignorance. Upah suggested that these Governors need proper education on industrial relations to avoid threatening democracy.

The labor unions argued that allowing Governors to pay workers arbitrarily exacerbates poverty and insecurity. Upah emphasized that workers’ salaries drive the economy, and the fate of Nigerian workers should not be left solely to employers. He urged President Bola Tinubu to resist pressure from unpatriotic Governors and to uphold his promise of a living wage.

The NLC called on the federal government to act decisively on the national minimum wage issue, emphasizing the importance of equity and fairness. The labor unions remain committed to advocating for a fair wage system that reflects Nigeria’s values and urged Governors to join this effort for the nation’s benefit.