The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has assured Nigerians that the newly approved minimum wage will be reviewed within the next two years.
Onyejeocha made this statement on Thursday in Umuahia while addressing journalists after a meeting with labour leaders in Abia State.
She highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare, emphasizing his pledge to review the minimum wage every three years.
“President Tinubu is deeply concerned about the welfare of Nigerian workers and is determined to fulfill every promise he has made to them,” Onyejeocha said.
“The minimum wage used to be reviewed every five years. Now, it will be reviewed every three years, which means we’ll revisit it in less than two years,” she added.
Tinubu’s Commitment to Workers
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that in July 2024, President Tinubu approved a N70,000 minimum wage with a promise to ensure regular reviews every three years. Onyejeocha reaffirmed that this timeline is documented and will be adhered to.
Labour Partnerships and Stability
The minister, who spent her Christmas and New Year holidays in Abia State, explained that her meeting with labour leaders was a gesture to engage her “constituents” and encourage collaboration between the government and the labour force.
“I urged them to work towards a strike-free year by fostering a peaceful partnership with the government. Stability in the workplace will lead to greater productivity,” she stated.
The Abia Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Ogbomna Okoro, praised Onyejeocha’s proactive efforts, assuring her of the labour union’s support and cooperation.
Engagement with Traditional Rulers
Earlier, Onyejeocha also held discussions with the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, where she explained key Federal Government policies. As a member of a royal family, her engagement was aimed at fostering understanding and support for the administration’s initiatives.
The government’s approach to regular wage reviews is part of its broader efforts to address workers’ welfare and ensure sustained peace and stability in the labour sector.
