As the December 1, 2024, deadline for implementing the new N70,000 minimum wage approaches, three Nigerian states Katsina, Zamfara, and Cross River remain in the spotlight for their delay in compliance. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning of industrial action if the states fail to meet the mandate, creating tension across the affected regions.
So far, 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have implemented the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act, with some surpassing the N70,000 baseline:
- Lagos and Rivers lead the pack, offering workers up to N85,000, with Lagos promising N100,000 starting in early 2025.
- Akwa Ibom, Enugu, Oyo, and Niger approved N80,000, while Delta and Ogun opted for N77,000.
- Several states, including Abia, Adamawa, Anambra, and Kwara, adhered to the baseline of N70,000.
States in Non-Compliance
Workers in Cross River staged a two-day warning strike from November 24–26 to demand compliance with the N70,000 minimum wage. Frustrations stem from Governor Bassey Otu’s announcement of a N40,000 minimum wage on May 1, 2024, citing the state’s economic constraints.
Despite these challenges, the state government has formed a negotiation committee. Chief Press Secretary Nsa Gill assured that the administration aims to meet or exceed the mandated wage. “The government is committed to achieving an amicable resolution before the national deadline,” Gill stated.
Katsina faces similar scrutiny, having inaugurated a 15-member committee last month to devise an implementation strategy. The committee, led by Secretary to the State Government Abdullahi Faskari, is yet to finalize its recommendations. Despite assurances from Deputy Governor Faruk Lawal, the lack of tangible progress has heightened worker discontent.
Details about Zamfara’s status remain sparse, though reports indicate minimal action toward wage implementation, leaving the state vulnerable to potential strikes.
The NLC has remained resolute in its demands, with Cross River NLC Chairman Gregory Ulayi warning of an indefinite strike if state governments fail to comply. “This is a national directive,” Ulayi emphasized, urging workers to prepare for further action if negotiations falter.
A nationwide strike by the NLC could disrupt economic activities and public services in non-compliant states, further straining state economies and worker morale.
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