TUC rejects FG’s N70,000 wage award, demands N300,000 minimum salary

The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has firmly rejected the Federal Government's proposed N70,000 monthly wage award for federal workers, insisting on a more substantial N300,000 minimum salary. This stance was voiced after discussions between the Federal Government and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) leadership. TUC President-General Festus Osifo and Secretary Nuhu Toro emphasized the need for a meaningful salary increase rather than temporary financial support that might not benefit all workers.

They also called for the implementation of the agreement with Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), highlighting the economic challenges faced by workers and the general public. The TUC argued that the initial wage award introduced in October 2023 was not fully executed before the 2024 minimum wage agreement, with some workers receiving payments for only one or two months, while others received nothing.

They also criticized the irregular payment of the earlier N40,000 wage award, noting that some workers received payments covering up to four months but not on a consistent monthly basis. Additionally, the union pointed out that over 80% of state governments and the informal sector failed to implement any wage award. The TUC questioned the government's proposal for another temporary payment when previous commitments remained unmet, questioning how workers could trust new promises when prior obligations were still outstanding.

The union maintained that a salary increase would offer more dependable support compared to temporary wage awards, especially as workers continue to grapple with rising living costs. TUC stressed that negotiations over a new national minimum wage should not hinder the government from granting an immediate pay rise. The union also emphasized that the economic crisis impacts not only federal employees but also state and local government workers, pensioners, private-sector employees, and individuals in the informal economy, who are all facing higher costs for essential goods and services.

TUC urged governments at all levels to take practical measures to reduce the cost of basic necessities, ensure timely salary and pension payments, safeguard existing jobs, and address exploitative labor practices.