Joe Ajaero, President of the National Labour Congress (NLC), highlights inflation and currency devaluation as key factors driving potential increase in minimum wage demands.
In an interview on Arise TV, NLC President Joe Ajaero expressed concerns over the possibility of the NLC’s minimum wage demands rising to N1 million per month if economic challenges persist.
Ajaero cited growing inflation and currency devaluation as major motivators behind this potential escalation.
“The demand of Labour is equally dependent on what is happening in the society,” Ajaero stated. He emphasized that the current economic conditions, including the depreciation of the Naira and rising inflation rates, are influencing factors that determine the NLC’s wage demands.
Ajaero highlighted the impact of these economic factors on the cost of living, noting the significant rise in prices of essential commodities such as rice and foodstuff.
He emphasized the need for minimum wage levels to adequately cover transportation and basic living expenses.
The Federal Government and Organised Labour, represented by the NLC and Trade Union Congress (TUC), are scheduled to meet today to address issues raised by a 14-day strike warning. The unions accuse the government of failing to fulfill previous agreements, including temporary wage awards for workers.
Ajaero pointed out instances where government promises, such as the payment of N35,000 and N25,000 as palliative measures, were not fulfilled, leading to discontent among workers.
He also questioned the efficacy of government interventions, citing concerns over the distribution of fertilizers to farmers.
The outcome of the upcoming negotiations between the government and labour unions will be crucial in addressing the grievances of workers and ensuring a fair resolution to the ongoing labor disputes.
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