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Senate Commits to Swift Consideration of New Minimum Wage Bill

Published

7 months ago

October 6, 2023

Stella Charles Akupue

Full text of President Tinubu’s address to Nigerians on current economic challenges.

In a significant development, the 10th Senate, under the leadership of Godswill Akpabio, has revealed its intention to promptly consider the proposed new minimum wage bill presented by the executive branch of government. Senator Diket Planning, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Employment, Labour, and Productivity, announced this in a statement.

Senator Plang emphasized the Senate’s commitment to improving the living conditions of workers across the country and addressing the prevalent issue of poverty. He praised the collaborative efforts of the federal government. He organized labour in initiating the necessary steps to review Nigeria’s current minimum wage, as outlined in the memorandum of understanding signed by the negotiating parties.

Senator Plang stated, “The Senate Committee on Employment, Labour, and Productivity, under my chairmanship, is prepared to give expeditious attention to the passage of a new Act once negotiations on the matter are concluded, and such a bill is transmitted to the National Assembly for enactment.”

The Chairman acknowledged the significance of averting potential industrial unrest through the memorandum of understanding between the federal government, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and the Trade Union Congress (TUC). He urged all involved parties to honour the agreements reached.

Senator Plang highlighted the Senate’s commitment to the principles of decent work, as advocated by the International Labour Organization. He affirmed the Senate’s dedication to taking legislative measures that support initiatives aimed at enhancing the working conditions of Nigerians, including implementing a living wage as part of the decent work agenda.

This announcement signals the Senate’s readiness to address labour-related issues and contribute to improving the welfare of Nigerian workers through effective legislation.