By Uzair Adam Imam
The Federal Government has stated that it cannot meet the labour unions’ demand to increase the national minimum wage from N30,000 to N494,000.
According to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the demand would result in a total wages bill of N9.5 trillion yearly for federal workers alone, potentially destabilizing the economy and jeopardizing the welfare of over 200 million Nigerians.
The government offered a 100% increase to N60,000, which has been accepted by the private sector.
However, labour is seeking a 1,547% increase to N494,000.
The minister appealed to labour to return to negotiations and embrace realistic wages.
The government prioritizes affordability, sustainability, and the overall health of the nation’s economy, considering the welfare of all Nigerians, not just workers.