The Federal Government has issued a warning to private sector employers regarding the non-implementation of the new national minimum wage. This comes despite delays in the implementation of the ₦70,000 minimum wage by the government itself.
Speaking at the 13th Annual General Meeting of the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria (EAPEAN) in Ikeja, Lagos, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Kachollom Daju, represented by John Nyamali, Director of Employment and Wages, emphasized that the minimum wage is now a legal requirement.
“The minimum wage is now a law, and it is a crime for any employer to pay less than ₦70,000. The government stresses that no worker in Nigeria, whether in public or private employment, should earn below this threshold, which has been set to address current economic conditions,” she stated.
She added that private employment agencies must ensure that all contracts with their clients include provisions guaranteeing workers at least ₦70,000, even after deductions, warning that employers failing to comply could face imprisonment.
However, Dr. Olufemi Ogunlowo, President of EAPEAN, called for clarification on whether the ₦70,000 applies as a net or gross amount, urging the government and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to address any confusion in the law.
“We are committed to the minimum wage and ensuring decent jobs for Nigerians while preventing exploitation,” Ogunlowo said.
Funmilayo Sessi, Chairperson of the Lagos State chapter of the NLC, highlighted the economic difficulties facing workers, urging private employers to swiftly implement the ₦70,000 wage. She stressed that while the amount is insufficient given the current economic realities, the NLC will ensure its strict enforcement across the state.