The Federal Government has responded to the
planned strike by organized labor, warning that it will exacerbate the
country's economic difficulties. Minister of State for Labour and Employment,
Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, stressed that any new minimum wage must avoid causing
widespread job losses, particularly in the Organised Private Sector, which
employs a large portion of the workforce.
Onyejeocha cautioned that the strike is not
in the country's best interest, especially with negotiations ongoing. The
Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) announced the
strike for June 3 due to the failure to reach a compromise on a new national
minimum wage.
"Striking in the middle of ongoing
negotiations will only worsen the economic woes and increase the suffering of
millions of Nigerians who are already struggling," Onyejeocha said through
her media aide, Emameh Gabriel.
She highlighted the government's commitment
and goodwill during negotiations with organized labor, noting that the government's
proposals were designed considering the country's economic realities and
included innovative solutions. These proposals feature a wage increase to
N60,000 for federal workers, the introduction of CNG-fueled buses, and improved
financial access for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Additionally, the government has pledged
investments in key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, education, and
healthcare. Onyejeocha emphasized that the government's approach aims to
balance the needs of workers with economic realities, ensuring that the minimum
wage is realistic and sustainable without harming the economy.
"This balanced approach is crucial for maintaining workforce harmony and driving national growth," she explained. The government seeks to protect both workers' and employers' interests, ensuring that any agreement reached is mutually beneficial and supports the country's economic stability.
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