President Bola Tinubu has emphasized the need for improved welfare, better wages, and safer working conditions for Nigerian workers, highlighting their vital role in driving the nation forward. During a meeting with the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), led by Comrade Joe Ajaero, and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), led by Comrade Festus Osifo, President Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritizing the concerns of workers.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu remarked, “I pay attention to everything around me. A happy worker is a productive worker. And society depends on the productivity of the happy worker.”
Addressing the issue of minimum wage, President Tinubu called for realistic expectations, suggesting a more dynamic and pragmatic approach to wage adjustments. He questioned, “Why must we adjust wages every five years? Why not two? Why not three years? What is a problem today, can be eased up tomorrow. There is much dynamism to this process if we are not myopic in our approaches. We can take a surgical approach that is based on pragmatism and a deep understanding of all factors.”
NLC President Comrade Ajaero underscored the necessity of increasing the minimum wage to match the current economic realities, stating, “Between living wage and minimum wage, we need to find a balance. Things are difficult for the Nigerian worker.” He also congratulated President Tinubu on the Supreme Court’s decision affirming local government autonomy, which he described as a significant victory for grassroots governance.
TUC President Comrade Osifo highlighted the adverse effects of inflation on the naira’s value and urged the government to expedite measures to alleviate the rising costs of food and transportation. He expressed optimism that the rollout of Compressed Natural Gas-powered buses and the suspension of duties on certain food imports would provide much-needed relief to citizens.
The meeting concluded with plans for further discussions next week to include a broader range of stakeholders, aiming for comprehensive solutions to the challenges faced by Nigerian workers.
