President Bola Tinubu expressed his belief that Nigerian workers, who he sees as the country’s backbone, deserve improved benefits, enhanced employment opportunities, and safer working conditions. Tinubu shared these sentiments during a meeting with leaders from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), led by Joe Ajaero, and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), led by Comrade Festus Osifo, in Abuja on Thursday.
In a statement conveyed by his media assistant, Ajuri Ngelale, the President emphasized his administration’s commitment to addressing the welfare of Nigerian workers. “I prioritize everything around me. A contented hand is a productive asset, and society relies on the productivity of a contented worker,” Tinubu remarked.
However, the President also called for a practical approach regarding the issue of minimum wage, stating, “We must manage our resources judiciously. Before finalizing decisions on the minimum wage, we need to assess the economic structure. Why must we adjust wages every five years? Why not more frequently? These are questions that warrant serious consideration.”
Regarding the minimum wage, Ajaero stressed the importance of balancing between a living wage and a minimum wage that reflects economic realities for Nigerian workers. He also commended the President for supporting the Supreme Court’s ruling affirming fiscal autonomy for state governments.
Meanwhile, Osifo highlighted the adverse effects of inflation on the value of the naira and called for effective implementation of government measures to alleviate the rising costs of food and transportation. He praised recent government directives aimed at reducing food prices and promoting the use of Compressed Natural Gas-powered vehicles.
Both union leaders acknowledged the need for further discussions with stakeholders on these critical issues, with further deliberations scheduled for the following week.
