In a compelling address at the 8th Quadrennial Delegates Conference of the Non-Academics Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) in Abuja, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, former President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and immediate past governor of Edo State, delivered a powerful message urging organized labor to ensure the implementation of a N35,000 wage award for all Nigerian workers before Christmas. Oshiomhole emphasized that the demand must be met by both public and private employers to cushion the impact of the recent petrol subsidy removal.
During his address, Oshiomhole shed light on the genesis of the N35,000 wage demand, highlighting the discrepancy between the approved amount and the undisclosed NLC request. He stressed the importance of a united front, urging the National Working Committee and National Executive Council of NLC to collaborate and decide on the minimum wage that workers across the country should receive.
"The N35,000 must affect all workers. It has to go round all workers in Nigeria, whether public or private, that is the logic of nationwide strike," Oshiomhole declared.
Addressing the issue of selective implementation by state governments, Oshiomhole criticized the lack of uniformity in applying the wage increase. He called for the NLC President to address these discrepancies, emphasizing that the demand for N35,000 must be inclusive, covering workers at all levels and sectors.
In a bold ultimatum, Oshiomhole warned employers in both the public and private sectors that failure to meet the N35,000 minimum wage demand would result in a Christmas devoid of peace. He emphasized that the holiday season should not be enjoyed by employers who neglect the agreed-upon wage increase.
Dr. Makolo Hassan, President of NASU, expressed appreciation for the three months' wage award of N35,000 approved by the President for federal employees, acknowledging it as an interim measure to alleviate the hardships caused by the removal of the fuel subsidy. Hassan called on state governments yet to implement the wage increase to do so urgently, recognizing the widespread impact on state government workers.
As the country waits on the edge of anticipation, the NLC is urged to address the issues raised by Oshiomhole, ensuring a harmonized and widespread implementation of the N35,000 minimum wage before Christmas, or risk facing the consequences of a tumultuous holiday season for employers nationwid
