Tinubu’s Govt Delays Minimum Wage Payment, Leaving Workers Waiting.
Despite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent approval of the N70,000 National Minimum Wage Act on July 29, 2024, many states are struggling to implement the new wage law. Currently, only Adamawa State has started paying the new wage, while other states have made minimal progress, primarily establishing implementation committees.
The delay is exacerbated by the federal government’s failure to provide a consequential adjustment template needed for comprehensive implementation. Labour unions have expressed frustration, noting that negotiations with state governments are ineffective without this crucial template. They have urged patience among workers until the federal government releases the necessary adjustment guidelines.
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Prior to the president’s approval, Edo State had already increased its minimum wage to N70,000, making it one of only two states, alongside Adamawa, to comply with the new standard. In Akwa Ibom State, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has yet to begin discussions on the new wage, awaiting the federal government’s circular on consequential adjustments.
In Zamfara, the government plans to form a committee to determine how to implement the new wage. The NLC in Kano State and Sokoto State have also expressed concerns, waiting for the federal government’s guidelines before taking further action.
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Plateau State and Cross River State have yet to decide on their approach to the new wage, with the state governments still reviewing their financial capabilities and potential implications.
Ondo State has pledged to implement the new wage but has not set a start date. Similarly, Enugu State has established a committee to oversee the implementation, with a deadline for the report set for one month.
Federal civil servants are also facing delays. Although the minimum wage was approved, its implementation has not been reflected in August salaries. Union leaders are pressing the federal government to act swiftly and ensure that the wage adjustments are included in the September paychecks, highlighting the urgency due to the rising cost of living.
The situation underscores the need for prompt action to prevent further distress among workers and ensure that the new minimum wage delivers the intended financial relief.