In light of the delay in rolling out the new minimum wage, Organised Labour is urging Nigerians to show understanding towards both Federal and State Governments.
They clarified that there is no evidence to suggest that the Federal Government is purposely avoiding the implementation of the new wage, as stated by Prof. Theophilus Ndubuaku, the Deputy President of Nigeria Labour Congress Political Commission in a recent interview.
The signing of the new minimum wage into law by President Bola Tinubu on July 29 occurred after consultations with leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria.
It was reported by NewsNow that only seven states – Kano, Kwara, Ogun, Borno, Jigawa, Ondo, and Abia – have established committees for the implementation of the approved N70,000 minimum wage.
However, other states such as Plateau, Kebbi, Sokoto, Nasarawa, Bayelsa, Delta, Osun, Ekiti, Zamfara, Benue, and many more are yet to take similar steps.
As of now, only Lagos and Edo states claim to have initiated payments in accordance with the new wage guidelines.
Adding to the list, the Adamawa government also announced its readiness to commence the payment of the new wage from Monday.
Ndubuaku emphasized that the delay in payments should be understood as part of the procedural complexities involved in implementing the N70,000 wage.
Despite the delays, he remains hopeful that the entire process will be wrapped up by the end of August.
Explaining further, he stated, “The signing of the wage law is just one step in a series of activities. Consequential adjustments need to be made, starting from the basic level and advancing through the various tiers up to level 16.
“The calculation process could consume some time, not forgetting the need for consensus amongst stakeholders. The designated committee is tasked with overseeing these adjustments, and we anticipate completion within this month.”