The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has reaffirmed its ultimatum for state governors to implement the new minimum wage by December 1, 2024. This deadline was confirmed by Benson Upah, the NLC's Head of Protocol and Public Relations, who stated unequivocally, "Yes, the ultimatum still stands. Nothing has changed." The announcement has intensified negotiations between state governments and organized labour across the country. Several states have already taken steps to comply with the directive. Taraba State, for instance, has announced the implementation of a new minimum wage of N70,000, effective from November 2024. The state's Head of Service, Paul Maigida, confirmed this development, stating, "I wish to inform you that His Excellency, the Governor of Taraba State, Dr Agbu Kefas, has approved the implementation of N70,000 new minimum wage for workers in Taraba State with effect from November 2024." Similarly, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has approved the immediate implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage following an agreement with the Committee on Consequential Adjustment on Salaries. In Sokoto State, Deputy Governor Alhaji Idris Gobir has urged the state chapter of the NLC to submit its proposal for wage adjustment, assuring, "Go and bring your proposal for the new minimum wage implementation and I assure you that I will facilitate the process of quick harmonisation." The Sokoto State NLC Chairman, Abdullahi Jungul, expressed optimism about the government's commitment, urging civil servants to remain calm as the union submits its proposal. Zamfara State has also indicated readiness to commence payment of the new minimum wage following the completion of a worker verification exercise aimed at eliminating ghost workers. This marks a significant shift from the previous administration under former governor Bello Matawalle, which did not implement the 2019 minimum wage of N30,000. However, not all states are progressing at the same pace. Cross River and Imo states are still in negotiation phases, while Osun State has yet to unveil any wage package amidst rising inflation. The Trade Union Congress (TUC), represented by National Vice President Tommy Etim, is closely monitoring these developments nationwide.
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