Workers across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Cross River, Nasarawa, Ebonyi, Kaduna, and Zamfara states have announced their readiness to embark on industrial action starting today due to the failure of state governments to implement the newly approved N70,000 minimum wage. Despite ongoing negotiations, labor unions in these states have expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of concrete action.
FCT Workers to Strike
The FCT chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) directed workers in the six Area Councils to commence an indefinite strike on December 1. In a statement, the FCT NLC Chairman, Stephen Knabayi, criticized the Area Council chairmen for their failure to implement the new wage despite a prior directive from the NLC National Executive Council.
Nasarawa State: Conditional Agreement
In Nasarawa, the NLC Chairman, Ismaila Okoh, confirmed plans for a strike, noting that while the state government had agreed to pay N70,500, no formal documentation had been signed. He added, “If no progress is made by midnight, our members will fully comply with the strike.”
Kaduna State Government Defends Compliance
The Kaduna State Government stated that it had implemented the new minimum wage, with workers receiving a minimum of N72,000 in November. However, NLC State Chairman Ayuba Suleiman insisted the strike would proceed as directed by the national leadership. Governor Uba Sani’s spokesperson, Ibraheem Musa, argued that further salary adjustments were unfeasible given the state’s revenue constraints. He urged the NLC to remain patient.
Ebonyi Workers Demand Action
In Ebonyi, NLC Chairman Dr. Oguguo Egwu highlighted that Governor Francis Nwifuru had announced the new wage in September but failed to follow up with collective bargaining and implementation. Workers in the state are set to join the strike in protest.
Zamfara Joins Industrial Action
Ahmed Abubakar, the NLC Secretary in Zamfara State, confirmed that workers had yet to receive the new wage and would join the nationwide strike. He emphasized that dialogue with the state government would continue during the action.
Cross River Strike Hinges on Last-Minute Agreement
In Cross River, NLC Chairman Gregory Ulayi revealed that workers were prepared for an indefinite strike. However, late-night discussions reportedly resulted in an agreement to pay the new wage. As of this report, it remains unclear whether the strike will proceed in the state.
Kaduna and Revenue Realities
Governor Uba Sani defended Kaduna State’s decision to prioritize the N72,000 wage over other adjustments, citing a revenue of N12 billion monthly, of which N6.3 billion goes to salaries. He highlighted other state expenditures, including loan deductions and development needs.
National Implications
The planned strikes underscore the challenges of implementing the new minimum wage across states with varying financial capabilities. While some states have made strides in meeting the wage requirements, others remain embroiled in negotiations, risking widespread industrial action and potential disruptions to essential services.
The NLC continues to push for compliance with the national directive, urging state governments to prioritize the welfare of their workers.
