The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has described as dictatorial the recent statement by some Nigerian governors that each state would determine what they deem fit as the minimum wage for its workers, urging them not to “reduce Nigerian workers to beggars”.
In a statement issued by Benson Upah, Head of Information and Public Affairs at NLC, the Congress emphasised that the national minimum wage is not an arbitrary figure, but a collective agreement designed to ensure a minimum standard of living for every worker in the country.
The governors’ desire to unilaterally set the minimum wage contradicts this principle and threatens the welfare of Nigerian workers and the national economy.
Reminding the governors that the minimum wage is separate from the individual pay structures of states, which already reflect their unique financial capabilities and circumstances, Upah stressed that “The concept of a national minimum wage represents a national wage floor, a baseline below which no worker should be paid.”
This flexibility, he noted, allows states to reward their workers in alignment with their financial realities.
The NLC, also criticised the inconsistency in the governors’ stance, pointing out that political office holders across the nation receive uniform salaries as determined by the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission without similar objections.
“This double standard pits a few privileged individuals against the majority poor, which should concern anyone who loves this country”, it added.
The NLC expressed deep concern over what it described as a “blatant display of ignorance” regarding global best practices for a national minimum wage by some governors. Despite frequent travels abroad, these governors, according to the NLC, have failed to educate themselves on fundamental issues crucial to successful governance. The Congress recommended that these governors “return to school for proper education” to avoid posing a threat to democracy.
The NLC commended the governors who prioritise workers’ welfare and urged the federal government to address the issue of the national minimum wage without yielding to pressure from “selfish governors.”
The Congress reiterated that workers’ salaries are not charity but hard-earned income that drives the economy.
“Allowing numerous companies and organisations in Nigeria to pay workers whatever they like is akin to what the governors are asking for. While these companies may not pay the same salaries, they must adhere to the national wage floor and the same should apply to state governors”, it added.
The Congress called on President Bola Tinubu to uphold his promise of a living wage and not be influenced by unpatriotic governors.
Urging the governors to abandon any inclination towards dictatorial practices and to embrace policies driven by equity and fairness. Ensuring a fair minimum wage, the Congress said, “Nigerian workers should not be reduced to beggars! Enough is enough!”
By Felix Ifijeh, THEWILL
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