The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly rejected the suggestion by some state governors that they should be allowed to determine the wages of their workers. The NLC argues that this proposal is not only dictatorial but also contrary to the concept of a national minimum wage.

In a statement by Mr. Benson Upah, NLC’s Head of Information and Public Affairs, the Congress warned state governors against making further inflammatory statements regarding the minimum wage, cautioning that such remarks could provoke industrial unrest.

The NLC emphasized that it may no longer be able to withstand the pressure for industrial action if the minimum wage issue continues to be delayed. They called on President Bola Tinubu, who had promised a living wage—superior to a minimum wage—to resist being blackmailed or pressured by unpatriotic governors.

Recently, Southern governors suggested that each state should negotiate its own pay rates. In response, the NLC stated, “The recent statements by some Nigerian governors about determining their own minimum wages are not only dictatorial but also undermine the essence of the national minimum wage model in Nigeria. The national minimum wage represents a wage floor below which no worker should be paid, ensuring a minimum standard of living.”

The NLC contended that the governors’ demand to unilaterally set the minimum wage threatens the welfare of Nigerian workers and the national economy. They reminded the governors that the national minimum wage is distinct from individual state pay structures, which reflect unique financial capabilities and circumstances. This existing flexibility allows states to reward workers in alignment with their financial realities.

Furthermore, the NLC pointed out the inconsistency in governors’ arguments when compared to the uniform salaries of political officeholders as determined by the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission. “This double standard pits a privileged few against the majority poor, a concern for anyone who loves this country.”

The NLC criticized the governors for their ignorance of global best practices regarding national minimum wages, despite their frequent travels abroad. They called for the governors to educate themselves on fundamental industrial relations, as their current stance is a threat to democracy and good governance in Nigeria.

The NLC also commended governors who prioritize the welfare of workers and pledged to continue working with those who demonstrate a commitment to progressive policies. They warned that the pursuit by some governors to pay workers whatever they like deepens poverty and insecurity, noting that workers’ salaries significantly drive the economy.

“The fate of Nigerian workers cannot be left solely in the hands of employers, whether public or private,” the NLC stated. “Allowing governors to set wages at will is akin to letting companies pay workers whatever they choose, which is unacceptable. While companies may have different pay scales, they must adhere to the national wage floor, and the same should apply to state governors.”

The NLC urged President Tinubu not to be blackmailed by unpatriotic governors and called on the federal government to act decisively on the national minimum wage issue. They demanded that governors abandon any dictatorial inclinations and uphold a tripartite process driven by equity and fairness.

Ensuring a fair minimum wage, the NLC argued, is not only a matter of economic justice but also crucial for maintaining social stability and national cohesion. They declared, “Nigerian workers should not be reduced to beggars. Enough is enough!”

The NLC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigerian workers and called on governors to join in this commitment for the benefit of all Nigerians, urging the flourishing of democracy.