N60,000 Offer: ‘Strike Will Compound Economic Woes’- Federal Govt Warns
The Federal Government has cautioned the organised labour on the proposed nationwide strike set to take off on Monday, saying it is not in the country’s best interest.
Reacting to the proposed strike,the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejoecha, stated that the strike would compound the economic woes of citizens.
Recall that the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero, at the Labour House on Friday declared that the strike would begin by midnight on Sunday, June 2, 2024 owing to failure of parties in the tripartite committee to reach a compromise on a new national minimum wage,
Onyejoecha, who spoke through her media aide, Emameh Gabriel said, “Going on strike in the middle of ongoing negotiations would not only compound the economic woes but also exacerbate the suffering of millions of Nigerians who are already struggling to eke out a living from their daily endeavors,”.
The minister also noted that the “government has consistently demonstrated commitment and goodwill throughout the negotiations with organised labour”.
According to the Labour Minister, the government’s proposals were carefully crafted, taking into account the country’s economic realities and incorporating innovative solutions.
She listed these proposals to include a comprehensive package featuring a wage increase to N60,000 for federal workers, the introduction of CNG-fueled buses, and enhanced financial access for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Additionally, according to her, the government has pledged investments in strategic sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, education, healthcare and many others that are already in the pipeline.
“This sector is crucial to the country’s economic growth and stability. The government’s stance is rooted in a deep understanding of the negotiations, demonstrating its dedication to finding a balance between the needs of workers and the economic realities of the country.
“The goal is to establish a minimum wage that is not only realistic but also sustainable, avoiding any potentially detrimental consequences for the economy.
“By adopting this approach, the government aims to safeguard the interests of both workers and employers, ensuring that any agreement reached is mutually beneficial and does not jeopardise the country’s economic progress. This balanced stance is crucial for maintaining harmony in the workforce and driving national growth”, she explained.
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