The Federal Government has reassured workers that it will settle the arrears of the N35,000 wage award, affirming that the government has resumed the payment of the wage award. Additionally, it reiterated its commitment to addressing issues in the National Minimum Wage agreement reached with Organised Labour in 2023.
The Minister of Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, conveyed the government’s dedication to implementing agreements with trade unions during separate meetings with the leaderships of the Trade Union Congress and Congress of University Academics on Wednesday in Abuja.
Onyejeocha emphasized the significance of her interactions with key trade unions, highlighting the intention to maintain open lines of communication, strengthen labor relations to reduce the likelihood of future strikes, and actively contribute to cultivating a harmonious and friendly work environment for all employees.
Onyejeocha emphasized that the government acknowledged the challenges faced by the trade unions, clarifying that her visit aimed not only to reiterate the government’s commitment to partnership but also to maintain open channels of communication.
“I am here specifically to reassure you that we have not forgotten about the agreements between the government and trade unions. I appreciate your confirmation that the federal government has initiated payment of the N35,000 wage award, and I can assure you that the payment is progressing, with the outstanding amount set to be settled within a short period,” she stated.
Onyejeocha added, “I am aware that the President is dedicated to addressing the issue of a new national minimum wage. The government is committed to ensuring that the committee starts its work promptly.”
“I am not willing to wait for any stakeholder to begin agitating; that’s why I’ve come to remind you that I am fully aware of those agreements. We are working tirelessly to ensure their fulfillment. If there are any, including past agreements, that we cannot fulfill immediately, we will continue our engagements on them,” she asserted.
Onyejeocha commended the TUC leadership for their faith in the government and assured the union of the government’s ongoing readiness to listen and collaborate with them for the greater good of the people.
Previously, The PUNCH reported that Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, suggested a wage adjustment to the Federal Government to mitigate the impacts of the fuel subsidy removal.
Under President Bola Tunubu’s administration, Labour Unions and the Federal Government had agreed to a six-month payment of an N35,000 wage award for lower cadre workers to alleviate the effects of subsidy removal.
Trade Union Congress President, Comrade Festus Osifo, praised the government for significant steps taken, particularly fulfilling 80% of the agreement with the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria. He urged the government to fulfill the remaining 20% of that agreement.
“We are not a union that waits for the government to fail to hold it to ransom. That is why we keep engaging,” Osifo emphasized.