Labour unions in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have warned of a complete shutdown of operations in Abuja if the N70,000 minimum wage is not implemented by November 30, 2024. The unions are aligning with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC)’s directive for a nationwide strike commencing December 1, 2024.
President Bola Tinubu signed the minimum wage bill into law on May 29, 2024. However, the FCT and seven other states—Zamfara, Sokoto, Osun, Cross River, Imo, Plateau, and Taraba—have yet to approve or implement the wage, which was expected to take effect in October.
Speaking with FRONTPAGE on Friday, Stephen Knabayi, Chairman of the FCT Council of the NLC, criticized the FCT administration’s delay, describing it as unfair given the skyrocketing cost of living. Knabayi revealed that multiple attempts to engage the FCT administration had failed, leaving the unions with no choice but to act.
“FCT has not implemented the minimum wage. We have tried to meet with the FCT administration, but that has not been possible. We will follow the directive of the NLC and shut down operations by November 30. Even the N70,000 minimum wage is insufficient, and it is unfair to workers,” he said.
Audu Akogwu, Chairman of the FCT chapter of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), echoed Knabayi’s frustrations, noting that the FCT administration under Minister Nyesom Wike had not engaged with the unions since his appointment in August 2023.
Akogwu stated, “The FCT mirrors what the federal government does. They paid the N35,000 wage award and cleared salary arrears. But there has been no formal negotiation for the new minimum wage. The issue is that both labour unions have been unable to meet with the Minister. Letters sent to him for courtesy visits remain unanswered to date.”
The unions argue that the federal government’s directive should apply to all states and territories. They have resolved to proceed with the shutdown unless the FCT implements the wage increase by the set deadline.
