- Minimum Wage Standoff: 14 States and FCT Yet to Implement New Policy
- Labour Unions Divided: Agreements in Key States Undermine Strike Momentum
- NLC Warns Non-Compliant States of Consequences
The planned nationwide strike by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), set for December 1, 2024, faces significant challenges as several state chapters have withdrawn their participation. The withdrawal follows agreements reached with some state governments on implementing the new N70,000 minimum wage approved by President Bola Tinubu in July.
While many states, including Lagos and Rivers, have pledged to pay above the stipulated minimum wage, 14 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have yet to commence implementation. This delay has been a major point of contention.
State Agreements Undermine Strike
In states like Imo, Sokoto, Oyo, and Katsina, FELLOW PRESS reports that local NLC chapters confirmed they would not join the industrial action, citing agreements reached with their respective governments. Leaders in these states highlighted progress in negotiations and commitments to implementing the new minimum wage.
- Imo: NLC Chairman Uche Chigaemezu stated that Governor Hope Uzodimma had demonstrated readiness to implement the N70,000 wage soon.
- Sokoto: The government announced the adoption of the minimum wage starting January 2025, prompting the union to withdraw.
- Oyo: Labour leaders noted a strong rapport with the state government, with ongoing discussions nearing finalization.
- Katsina: Agreements with the state government led to a memorandum ensuring wage adjustments.
States Joining the Strike
Despite these withdrawals, states like Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Zamfara reaffirmed their participation. Kaduna NLC Chairman Ayuba Suleiman declared readiness to proceed with the strike, demanding immediate compliance with the wage policy.
National NLC Insists on Strike
The NLC national leadership dismissed the excuses of non-compliant states, emphasizing the importance of full implementation over verbal commitments. National Treasurer Akeem Ambali warned that any state failing to meet the new wage requirements would face consequences.
“States making empty promises or delaying implementation until 2025 will not be spared. Labour law mandates immediate compliance, and we are resolute in enforcing this,” Ambali stated.
As the strike looms, some states, including Abia and Cross River, remain undecided, while others continue negotiations. The situation underscores the challenges of achieving uniform compliance with the national wage directive.
