The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has put forward a proposal for a new minimum wage of N485,000 for workers, citing the need to reflect the current economic realities and ensure a decent standard of living.
The proposal was presented during the North West Public hearing on the Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage held at the Coronation Hall, Government House, Kano. Kabir Inuwa, the Kano State Chairman of NLC, presented the position paper on behalf of the North West Leadership of the Congress.
Inuwa emphasized the necessity of a new minimum wage that considers the cost of living and provides for the basic needs of workers and their families. He stressed that any minimum wage should reflect the economic situation and assess the income required for the survival of a family of six.
The NLC Boss highlighted the economic challenges faced by the North West geo-political zone, including banditry, unemployment, and hyperinflation, exacerbated by the removal of fuel subsidy and forex policy. He called for regular reviews of the minimum wage every two years to ensure its relevance and responsiveness to economic changes.
Inuwa proposed a review mechanism involving consultations with labour unions, government representatives, and economic experts for a fair and transparent process.
The absence of governors from the Northwest Zone at the public hearing was noted, with only Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, sending representation. The host governor was represented by his deputy, Abdulssalam Gwarzo.
