The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in the North West zone has put forward a proposal for a minimum wage of N485,000 per worker. The announcement was made during a Zonal public hearing on the minimum wage review held in Kano, as outlined in a position paper signed by Kano NLC Chairman Kabiru Inuwa.
Inuwa explained that the suggested minimum wage takes into account the economic challenges faced by the North West geo-political zone, including banditry, high unemployment, and hyperinflation. The proposal aims to reflect the economic realities and assess the minimum income required for the survival of a worker supporting a family of six in the region.
Highlighting the impact of recent policy changes, Inuwa stated, “The proposed new minimum wage, review mechanism, and penalties for non-compliance are essential steps towards ensuring fair and decent wages for workers. It is imperative to prioritize the well-being of workers and the masses in the formulation of wage policies to promote social justice and economic stability.”
The proposal suggests a comprehensive review mechanism every two years, considering inflation rates, cost of living adjustments, and other economic indicators. Additionally, the NLC calls for federal government intervention to enforce compliance through withholding allocations to states or public institutions that violate the minimum wage law.
