Trade Union Congress of Nigeria has demanded N300K minimum salary.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has rejected the Federal Government’s proposed ₦70,000 monthly wage award for federal workers, insisting that the government should increase the salary of the lowest-paid worker to ₦300,000.
The union’s position followed a meeting between the Federal Government and the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) over the proposed wage award.
In a statement signed by its President-General, Festus Osifo, and Secretary, Nuhu Toro, the TUC argued that workers needed a substantial salary increase rather than temporary financial support that might not benefit everyone.
“Our position is unequivocal: workers are not asking for favours; they are demanding social and economic justice that protects their dignity and livelihoods,” the statement said.
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The union also called for the implementation of the agreement with the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), citing the economic difficulties facing workers and other Nigerians.
The TUC questioned the government’s proposal for another temporary wage award, arguing that the previous ₦40,000 wage award introduced in October 2023 was not fully implemented before a new national minimum wage was agreed in 2024.
According to the union, some workers received payments for only one or two months, while others did not receive any payment. It added that some workers received payments covering up to four months, but the disbursements were irregular.
The labour organisation further claimed that more than 80 per cent of state governments and employers in the informal sector did not implement any form of wage award.
“How can workers be expected to trust fresh promises when previous obligations remain outstanding?” the TUC asked.
The union maintained that a permanent salary increase would offer workers more reliable financial relief than a temporary wage award, particularly amid rising living costs.
It also argued that ongoing negotiations over a new national minimum wage should not prevent the government from approving an urgent pay rise for workers.
The TUC stressed that the economic crisis extends beyond federal employees, noting that state and local government workers, pensioners, private-sector employees and people in the informal economy are also grappling with higher costs of food, transportation, healthcare and other essential needs.
The union urged governments at all levels to take practical measures to reduce the cost of essential goods and services, ensure timely payment of salaries and pensions, protect existing jobs and tackle exploitative labour practices.
It also called for renewed efforts to strengthen the productive sector and create decent employment opportunities across the country.
