With just days to a potential nationwide strike, states yet to implement Nigeria’s new N70,000 minimum wage are scrambling to avert industrial action. Katsina, Cross River, and Zamfara remain the holdouts, while 33 other states and the Federal Capital Territory have already complied with the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act.
Highlights of Compliance and Wage Variations
- Top Payers: Lagos and Rivers lead with a promised N85,000, with Lagos workers expected to receive up to N100,000 by early 2025.
- High Earners: Akwa Ibom, Enugu, Oyo, and Niger offer N80,000, while Delta and Ogun approved N77,000.
- Minimum Adopters: Abia, Adamawa, Anambra, and several others settled for the base N70,000.
Labour Pushes Back
Cross River workers staged a two-day warning strike earlier this week, demanding compliance. Labour leaders rejected the state government’s initial N40,000 offer, citing “stall tactics” in negotiations. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Chairman in Cross River, Gregory Ulayi, warned of an indefinite strike if the state fails to act.
In Katsina, negotiations remain inconclusive despite the establishment of a committee in October. Labour sources indicate heightened tension as the December 1 deadline approaches.
Meanwhile, Zamfara officials claim progress, with a committee finalizing modalities to adopt the new wage. Governor Dauda Lawal reaffirmed his commitment to workers’ welfare, citing past efforts to improve salaries and pay arrears.
Broader Implications
Failure to meet the wage mandate could spark significant disruptions nationwide, as labour unions push for full compliance. While some states are negotiating, workers remain skeptical, demanding swift action to meet the agreed standard.
As the deadline looms, the ball is in the court of non-compliant states to prevent a crisis.
