The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) are preparing for a nationwide industrial action starting on Monday.
The federal government has cautioned against this move, arguing that such action at this critical period could further harm the country's economy.
The government also stated that the demand for a ₦65,000 national minimum wage by the organized labour is unsustainable, as it would cumulatively amount to ₦9.5 trillion, potentially destabilizing the economy and impacting the welfare of over 200 million Nigerians.
The NLC and TUC have initiated mobilization of their affiliates across the country to commence the shutdown from midnight on Sunday.
However, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejoecha, has urged the unions to reconsider their decision and continue engaging in constructive dialogue to find a solution that benefits all. She emphasized the need for the principles of social dialogue to be respected and cautioned that a strike at this time would disproportionately harm the most vulnerable segments of society.
The minister also expressed concern that any new minimum wage should not lead to widespread job losses, particularly in the Organized Private Sector, which employs the majority of the nation's workforce.
Onyejeocha highlighted the government's flexibility in rescheduling negotiations and expressed disappointment over the abrupt exit of organized labour from the negotiations, despite the government's efforts.
Barring any last-minute intervention, the nationwide strike by NLC and TUC will commence at midnight on Sunday.
The Assistant Secretary of the NLC, Comrade Chris Onyeka, confirmed that all affiliate unions nationwide have been directed to mobilize their members for the industrial action.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, reiterated the government's stance on the issue, emphasizing the potential impact of the proposed national minimum wage on the economy and the welfare of Nigerians.
Idris urged union leaders to return to the negotiating table and consider reasonable and realistic wages for their members.
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