NLC Rejects Governors’ Proposal for State-Determined Minimum Wages

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly opposed the proposal by state governors to set their own minimum wages for workers, labeling the idea as autocratic and contrary to the principle of a national minimum wage.

In a statement by NLC’s Head of Information and Public Affairs, Mr. Benson Upah, the union warned that such measures could trigger labor unrest and urged President Bola Tinubu to uphold his commitment to a living wage.

The NLC emphasized that the national minimum wage represents a legally mandated wage floor, ensuring a minimum standard of living for all workers. They argued that allowing governors to set their own wages would undermine this principle and endanger the welfare of Nigerian workers and the national economy.

“This proposal goes against the very essence of a national minimum wage, which is designed to protect workers and ensure a minimum standard of living,” Upah stated. “The NLC stands firm against any attempt to erode this fundamental right.”

The union’s statement came in response to recent remarks by some governors advocating for state-determined minimum wages, arguing that it would reflect their distinct financial capabilities. However, the NLC countered that the existing system already allows for flexibility through state-specific pay structures, which accommodate financial variances without undermining the national wage floor.

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“The diversity of pay scales across states already demonstrates the system’s inherent flexibility,” Upah noted. “However, the national minimum wage remains a crucial benchmark that must not be compromised.”

The NLC also criticized the perceived double standards in the remuneration of political officeholders, whose salaries are determined nationally by the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation, and Fiscal Commission without similar calls for decentralization.

The labor union warned that ignoring the collective bargaining process and unilaterally setting wages could lead to widespread poverty and insecurity, exacerbating social tensions. They urged governors to prioritize the welfare of workers and adhere to international best practices in labor relations.

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“In a sane society, employers—whether public or private—cannot unilaterally determine workers’ wages. This undermines social stability and national cohesion,” the statement read. “We call on President Tinubu to resist pressures from disloyal governors and uphold his promise of a living wage.”

The NLC reiterated its commitment to defending the rights and welfare of Nigerian workers and called on the federal government to end its indecision on the national minimum wage.

“Setting a fair minimum wage is essential for economic justice and social stability. We urge all governors to join us in this commitment to protect Nigerian workers and foster national unity,” the statement concluded.