Nasarawa State Government has appealed to organised labour in the state to be patient, as it addresses necessary financial adjustments to pave way for smooth implementation of the approved N70,000 minimum wage.
Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr Ibrahim Angbolo, made the appeal while interacting with the Joint Labour Union on Tuesday in Lafia.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that workers in the state had, on Monday, embarked on strike over delay in implementation of the new national minimum wage in the state.
Angbolo, however, restated the state government’s ‘uncompromising’ commitment to addressing workers’ welfare and ensuring a seamless rollout of the new wage structure.
He acknowledged the critical role of the organised labour in fostering dialogue and maintaining industrial harmony in the state.
The commissioner said that the state government, under the leadership of Gov. Abdullahi Sule, had begun the implementation process in spite of the fiscal challenges faced by the state.
“Government recognises the sacrifices and dedication of our hardworking civil servants. We are committed to fast-tracking the implementation of the National Minimum Wage to improve their living standards.
“However, we urge our esteemed labour union and workers to remain patient as we address administrative and financial adjustments necessary for a smooth transition,” he said.
The commissioner said that the Sule-led administration had consistently demonstrated its commitment to workers’ welfare, citing the payment of inherited backlog of promotion arrears and prompt payment of salaries and pensions.
In his remarks, Chairman of Trade Union Congress (TUC) in the state, Mohammed Doma, said the strike was in compliance with the directives given by the national body of the union.
Doma, however, said that as soon as the negotiation was concluded, the strike would be called off.
While urging the state government to expedite the process, considering the economic realities currently being faced by workers, he, however, commended the government for its openness and willingness to engage in negotiations. (NAN)
