The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has criticized state governors for their reluctance to implement the N70,000 minimum wage.
NLC President Joe Ajaero expressed his frustration at the 2024 delegates’ conference of the NLC Youth Council in Abuja, highlighting the harsh realities faced by Nigerians.
Ajaero emphasized that the rich continue to accumulate wealth at the expense of the poor, while the value of labor is often disregarded.
He cited the example of a 50kg bag of rice selling for N105,000 and transport from Abuja to Port Harcourt costing over N50,000.
Despite the challenges, Ajaero urged Nigerians not to dwell on the negative but to rise with determination. He reiterated the importance of young people in the trade union movement and announced plans to establish youth executive councils in every state.
While some state governors have initiated committees to implement the new minimum wage, others are yet to take action. According to reports, 17 governors have established committees to implement the N70,000 minimum wage.
Some states, such as Adamawa, Edo, Lagos, and Anambra, have already begun paying the new wage or have pledged to implement it soon. However, others, like Benue, Delta, and Bayelsa, are yet to establish implementation committees or finalize their plans.
The NLC’s criticism of state governors comes as the organization continues to advocate for workers’ rights and better working conditions. As Ajaero emphasized, “No one will build our nation for us.”
