By Mohammed Bello Doka
As negotiations continue between the Federal Government and organized labour over the new minimum wage, tensions remain high. The Federal Government recently increased its initial offer by N2,000, raising the proposed minimum wage from N60,000 to N62,000. This proposal, however, has been rejected by the labour unions, who consider it inadequate.
The current phase of negotiations follows a nationwide strike last Monday, which was launched during the prior round of discussions. The 27-hour strike brought commercial activities to a halt, with businesses and government agencies shutting down, significantly disrupting daily life across the country. The strike has since been called off for a week to allow room for further negotiations.
The latest proposal by the government has ignited widespread debate, with many Nigerians questioning the government's commitment to workers' welfare. This skepticism is further fueled by the recent removal of electricity and fuel subsidies, which has led to a fivefold increase in the prices of these essential services, as well as a sharp rise in the cost of goods and services.
In a recent development, the Federal Government has adjusted its offer, proposing a new minimum wage of N62,000. Meanwhile, organized labour has reduced its initial demand from N494,000 to N250,000. This adjustment followed the submission of the cost implications of the minimum wage by the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, to President Bola Tinubu.
As the negotiations continue, the nation awaits further updates on this critical issue that affects millions of Nigerian workers.
*Details to follow...*
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