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On Friday, the Senate declared its intention to promptly consider the forthcoming minimum wage bill from the executive branch of the government.
This move is aimed at enhancing the well-being of workers and promoting industrial harmony within the country. The Senate’s commitment to expedite the bill’s review and passage was conveyed in a statement issued by Senator Diket Plang, the Chairman of the Committee on Employment, Labour, and Productivity.
Senator Plang, in his statement, assured Nigerians of the 10th Senate’s dedication to improving the living conditions of the country’s workforce as part of their efforts to combat the prevailing high levels of poverty.
He commended both the Federal Government and Organized Labour for their collaborative efforts in initiating the necessary processes to review the current Minimum Wage in Nigeria, as outlined in the memorandum of understanding signed by the negotiating parties.
“The Senate Committee on Employment, Labour, and Productivity, under my leadership, is prepared to give prompt attention to the passage of a new Act once the negotiations are concluded and the corresponding bill is transmitted to the National Assembly for enactment,” Senator Plang affirmed.
He also lauded the Federal Government’s proactive measures taken to avert a nationwide worker strike the previous Tuesday. However, he cautioned all parties involved to uphold their commitments and refrain from reneging on the agreements reached.
“Nigerians, and particularly members of this committee, are relieved that the impending industrial unrest was averted through the memorandum of understanding reached among the federal government, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and the Trade Union Congress (TUC). Nevertheless, it is imperative that all parties involved honor their respective agreements,” he emphasized.
Senator Plang further emphasized the committee’s dedication to the principles of decent work as established by the International Labour Organization (ILO). He pledged to take the necessary legislative actions to support initiatives aimed at enhancing the working conditions of Nigerian workers, including the implementation of a living wage in accordance with the decent work agenda.
