The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has criticized the Federal Government’s recent payment of only one month of the five-month N35,000 wage award arrears owed to Nigerian workers, labeling it “tokenistic and dismissive.” NLC spokesperson Benson Upah made the statement in an exclusive interview with newsmen on Tuesday.
Upah’s remarks follow a disclosure by Bawa Mokwa, spokesperson for the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, to newsmen, confirming that payment of the outstanding five-month wage award began at the end of May and would continue in installments. However, Upah expressed organized labour’s dissatisfaction, stating, “Clearing one month out of five is both tokenistic and dismissive. We are not impressed.”
The Federal Government recently confirmed full implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage across its ministries, agencies, and parastatals, following its signing into law by President Bola Tinubu in July 2024. Despite this, Upah highlighted ongoing challenges, particularly at the local government level, urging the Accountant General to resolve issues to ensure seamless implementation. He also noted that while most states have adopted the new minimum wage, some federal agencies are still defaulting. “It is quite disappointing that segments of the Federal Government are in default. Processes of engagement are, however, on,” Upah said.
Despite concerns over the erosion of the minimum wage’s value due to government policies over the past two years, Upah emphasized its importance, stating, “It remains the best option for workers. We should strengthen as well as create value around the process.”
The NLC continues to advocate for full compliance with the minimum wage across all tiers of government, as discussions with relevant authorities remain ongoing to address implementation gaps.
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