The federal government is appealing to labour unions to call off their ongoing strike and return to the negotiation table.
The strike, which began on Monday, 3 June 2024 has caused significant disruptions across the country, with power outages, hospital, school and bank closures, and transportation issues impacting daily life for many Nigerians.
At a press briefing on Monday, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, acknowledged the concerns raised by labour unions regarding the minimum wage. However, he emphasised the need for continued dialogue to reach a mutually agreeable solution.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) is firmly committed to doing what is right, reasonable and sustainable regarding these minimum wage negotiations. We call on the labour unions to reciprocate this gesture in the interest of the nation,” Idris said.
The Minister also highlighted the negative consequences of the strike on the Nigerian economy and the well-being of citizens.
“Labour’s current proposal of N494,000 is an increase of 1,547 per cent on the existing wage, and translates into an annual wage bill of N9.5 trillion for the Federal Government of Nigeria alone,” he said.
“This is apart from its cost implications for subnational governments and private sector employees. Such a wage bill would cripple the Nigerian economy, by leading to massive job losses, especially in the private sector.”
The appeal comes amidst growing pressure from various sectors, including the opposition Labour Party, which has urged both sides to find common ground. The party believes adjustments can be made on both ends to reach a compromise.
While there is no official word on when the strike might end, the government’s plea indicates their desire for a swift resolution.
Ezinwanne Onwuka, senior staff reporter and columnist with WAP is a Nigerian-based writer and content developer. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy from the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Her interests include reading, writing, researching and graphic designing.
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