The Nigerian government says the inauguration of the tripartite committee on national minimum wage for workers is a clear expression of its desire to nurture a motivated workforce.
Vice President Kashim Shettima made the declaration on Tuesday while inaugurating the committee at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
He stressed that doing so reemphasises the importance of workers to the development of the nation.
The Vice President, who inaugurated the committee on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, said: “We are here to reaffirm our promise to improve the welfare of the Nigerian workers and by extension the entire nation. The labour force stands as the cornerstone of the progress of every nation and that of Nigeria has been the enduring engine of our pursuit of development.
“I, therefore, welcome the nominees of the tripartite national minimum wage committee composed of the government employers and labour unions who have been carefully selected for the crucial task of renegotiating a new minimum wage for workers in our beloved nation.”
VP Shettima noted that the Nigerian government is sensitive to the present condition of workers in the country thus the decision to act fast,
“Our sense of duty today thrives on both our sensitivity to the conditions of the Nigerian worker and the impending expiration of the last Minimum Wage Instrument in a few months. It is in recognition of the need to ensure a fair and decent living wage, and in compliance with the Act, that the Federal Government has set in motion necessary mechanisms to assemble this tripartite Committee to chart a future that aligns with our collective interests,” he added.
VP Shettima used the opportunity to appeal to Nigerians to bear with the government as it implements its new economic reforms because they are in the interest of the nation.
“While the decisions we have taken to save the economy are inevitable, we are not unaware of the short-term consequences. We believe that government is a continuum, and, as such, we have intervened in the systemic delays that undermined our economic growth. Since the removal of the subsidy, various committees have been established to examine and make recommendations to the government on measures to cushion the envisaged painful effects of the increase on workers and the Nigerian populace at large. I am pleased to share that action has since commenced on implementing the outcome of those agreements and initiatives,” he said.
Representation
“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, this gathering stems from the deliberations of one of the Technical Committees, which included representatives from Government and Organized Labour. We have identified the need for the review of the National Minimum Wage and to consider a minimum wage level that can alleviate the nation. It gladdens my heart that the recommendation is being acted upon today, and we can all acknowledge that this is in line with our democratic process and adherence to the rule of law. I express my gratitude to all those who contributed to that endeavor,” the Vice President noted.
He revealed that the tripartite committee comprises versatile members from both the public and private sectors, as he directed them to ensure quality participation and contributions during the meetings of the important committee.
“Given the comprehensive membership scope of this new National Minimum Wage Committee, it includes all stakeholders. Recognizing the significance of this initiative and to ensure a substantial engagement, I hereby direct that Ministers and the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation should personally attend the meeting. In their unavoidable absence, their Permanent Secretaries should represent them. Similarly, Governors are expected to attend in person or be represented by their Commissioners where necessary. I urge you to consider the issue of a National Minimum Wage and all related matters with thoroughness and concern, keeping in mind not only the welfare of our workforce but also the impact on the country’s economy,” he said.
He highlighted the financial capacity of all tiers of government to pay the new minimum wage. The Vice President urged the committee to ensure its deliberations consider the interest of all employers of labour.
He said: “The issue of a National Minimum Wage for the Federation falls within the Exclusive Legislative List of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Therefore, our objective should be to surpass the basic Social Protection Floor for all Nigerian workers, considering the sustainable payment capacity of each tier of government and other employers or businesses.
I express this viewpoint because the minimum wage represents the least amount of compensation an employee should receive for their labour, and as such, it should be rooted in social justice and equity. I hope that the results of your deliberations will be consensual and acceptable to all parties involved.”
He pledged that the government will not delay sending an executive bill to the National Assembly upon receiving recommendations from the tripartite committee to ensure that Nigerian workers get a new minimum wage.
Speaking earlier, Secretary to Government of the Federation, George Akume urged the committee to exhibit a high sense of patriotism in carrying out its task.
“The presence of the Vice President to preside over this inauguration underscores the government’s full commitment to this process. In due course, the leadership of Mr. President and the Vice President would be invaluable in guiding the Committee and other stakeholders towards a successful outcome.
“Distinguished Chairman and members, I urge you to approach this Patriotic task with the spirit of commitment, collaboration, and flexibility and Patriotism. Please eschew individual interests and focus on the common good for our dear nation,” he said.
Chairman of the Committee, Goni Bukar-Aji, pledged that they will bring on board their expertise in order to deliver on their task.
Members of the committee include the Ministers of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Governors of Bauchi, Niger, Anambra, Osun, Katsina and Cross River, as well as the Presidents of the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress among others.
Dominica Nwabufo
