The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to revisiting Nigeria’s minimum wage policy, with a review slated to occur every three years. Speaking in Umuahia during a briefing with labour leaders in Abia State, Onyejeocha emphasized that the next review will take place in less than two years.
Tinubu's Pledge to Workers
“President Tinubu is deeply committed to the welfare of Nigerian workers and has pledged to keep his promises,” Onyejeocha stated. She highlighted that the three-year interval for minimum wage reviews, introduced during Tinubu’s administration, marks a significant improvement from the previous five-year period.
Tinubu had approved a ₦70,000 minimum wage in July 2024 and assured that the policy would undergo periodic reviews to ensure it reflects the economic realities and enhances workers’ living standards.
Engagement with Labour Leaders
During the meeting, Onyejeocha, who spent the holidays in her home state of Abia, urged labour leaders to work collaboratively with the government to promote workplace stability and national peace.
“I reminded them that labour is an integral part of the government, and ensuring a strike-free year will lead to greater productivity and harmony,” she said.
The Abia Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Ogbomna Okoro, commended Onyejeocha for her achievements and expressed the union’s readiness to support her initiatives.
Traditional Rulers Roundtable
In a separate meeting with the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, Onyejeocha discussed federal policies, underscoring the government’s commitment to inclusivity and development. The minister, a member of a royal family herself, expressed her gratitude for their support and emphasized the need for collaboration between traditional institutions and the government.
Onyejeocha's assurances signal the administration’s focus on improving workers' welfare and fostering industrial peace, as the government seeks to meet the expectations of Nigerian labour unions and citizens alike.
