The Ministry of Finance made this known in a statement signed by its Head, Press and Public Relations Unit, Chukwu Oby, on Monday.
The Federal Government is currently taking steps towards ensuring a fair and sustainable national minimum wage.
As part of this commitment, six zonal public hearings have been organised across the country to review the existing wage policy
Following an outcry from organised labour, the FG inaugurated a 37-member tripartite committee on national minimum wage.
The committee is tasked with the responsibility of recommending a new national minimum wage for Nigerian workers.
According to the International Labour Organisation, minimum wage is “the minimum amount of remuneration that an employer is required to pay wage earners for the work performed during a given period, which cannot be reduced by collective agreement or an individual contract.”
The statement partly read, “The upcoming South-West Zonal Public Hearing, slated for March 7, 2024, will be held at the LTV Blue Roof Arena in Lagos. The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Wale Edun will preside over the proceedings.
“This critical session aims to gather insights and recommendations from various stakeholders in the region.
“Joining Mr. Edun on the panel are prominent figures representing diverse interests. Governor Adeleke Ademola of Osun State, championing state government perspectives; Omo-Lamai Grace, representing the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, advocating for employers’ interests; Muhammed Nura, from the Nigeria Association of Small and Medium Enterprises, providing valuable insights from the business community; Organised labor will be well-represented by Adeyanju Adewale, Nigeria Labour Congress and Shuaibu Afusatu of Trade Union Congress.
“Additionally, the Honourable Minister of State, Labour and Employment, Onyejeocha Nkeiruka, will contribute her expertise.”
The statement added that “this collaborative effort seeks to strike a balance between the well-being of workers and the economic health of the nation.
“By engaging stakeholders and incorporating their perspectives, the government aims to formulate a minimum wage policy that reflects our economic realities and aspirations.”
“Stakeholders, policymakers, and concerned citizens are invited to participate actively in shaping this crucial policy,” adding that Nigerians should “work together to build a stronger, fairer” nation.
