Murtala Adewale, Kano
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has insisted that no amount of pressure will change the stand of the union against the N62,000 proposed minimum wage of the Federal Government.
NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, reiterated the workers’ position in affirmation of its N250,000 demand, adding that the labour union would remain committed to the struggle for workers’ interests.
Several meetings between the federal government and the NLC had failed to yield significant results as both parties failed to shift ground even as the existing minimum wage expired in April 2024.
Ajaero spoke in Kano on Sunday during an award ceremony organised by the National Association of Medical and Health Workers, North West zone, in honour of its National President, Comrade Kabiru Ado Munibur, and two other national executives from the zone.
Represented by NLC General Secretary, Comrade Immanuel Ugboaja, the labour leader worried over the economic reality and worsening inflation rate which he said could no longer sustain Nigerian workers.
Ajaero reaffirmed the NLC’s unwavering commitment to securing a realistic wage that would enable Nigerian workers to live a dignified life, and not one reminiscent of servitude.
Ubgoaja commended the Medical and Health Workers Union for their outstanding dedication to assisting their community, notably within their local chapters.
Former Labour chairman, Haruna Wabba, called upon the federal government to prioritise the welfare of workers by guaranteeing a just minimum wage.
Kano State Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam, who disclosed readiness to improve workers’ salaries, said the present administration has eliminated arbitrary deductions from workers’ salaries.
The deputy governor also revealed the payment of N11 billion pension liability in the last seven months and conducted a promotion exercise for civil servants with full payment.
He said the Kano State Government will handle labour matters with all the responsibility required while sustaining the resolutions from the worker consultation forum.
President of Medical and Health Workers, Comrade Minjibri, applauded the support of members from the North West and pledged to protect their interests.
