The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, defends the decision to suspend the proposed indefinite strike over the removal of the petrol subsidy and disagreements on palliatives. In an interview, he dismisses criticism, stating that Labour achieved about 90% of its demands through negotiations before the strike suspension.
According to Ajaero, negotiations covered various demands, including the implementation of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as an alternative to petrol, plans for refinery operations, wage awards, and removal of the six-month ceiling on the proposed N25,000 minimum wage, increasing it to N35,000. Other issues, such as interference with the National Union of Road Transport Workers and discussions on tertiary institutions workers, were also addressed.
Regarding the suspended strike, Ajaero acknowledges that the government’s offers are currently promissory notes, emphasizing the time-frame attached to both the government’s commitments and the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Labour.
Responding to critics who accused Labour of selling out, Ajaero challenges their qualifications in labor or industrial relations, asserting that negotiations involve reaching an enforceable and implementable agreement.
He also clarifies that negotiations regarding state, local government, and private sector wages are decentralized, following established frameworks for negotiations. On the issue of the palliative committee, Ajaero suggests directing inquiries to the Governors Forum, as there was no meeting point between the committee, government, and Labour.
Looking ahead to the new national minimum wage negotiations next year, Ajaero indicates that adjustments will be based on changes in economic factors. He suggests considering the cost of living index, inflationary trends, and other parameters to determine a fair wage increase.
When asked about economists advising against a wage increase due to economic challenges, Ajaero challenges their qualifications and argues that purchasing power is essential for economic growth. He contends that a new minimum wage should be around $200, emphasizing the need to consider factors like transportation, accommodation, feeding, and education costs.
Ajaero expresses optimism that the negotiations for the new minimum wage will be concluded within the next six months, adhering to the legal timeline set by the National Assembly.
