The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has urged governments across the country to emulate Imo State’s implementation of a ₦104,000 minimum wage for workers.
NLC President, Joe Ajaero, made the call on Thursday in Abuja at the 7th National Quadrennial Delegates Conference of the National Union of Civil Engineering Construction, Furniture and Wood Workers (NUCECFWW), themed “Building Trade Unions’ Future through Strategic Organising and Investments.”
Ajaero praised Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, for taking the lead, describing the move as both commendable and encouraging for other states.
“So many people asked me if this was real. I said yes, it is, and I have confirmed it directly from the governor. It is real, and it is commendable,” Ajaerosaid.
He explained that during wage negotiations with the Federal Government, one argument was that states might not cope with higher pay, even though the Federal Government admitted it could afford more.
According to him, Imo’s decision proves that sub-nationals can also pay higher than the national benchmark, despite revenue challenges.
“Minimum wage is the least. States can do better. This initiative is one other governors should follow. You don’t have to wait three years for another review, especially given the current economic situation,” he added.
Ajaero also raised concerns over the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), alleging that 40 per cent of workers’ contributions had been diverted, with efforts underway to amend the Act for greater government control.
“This fund belongs entirely to workers, and we demand that it be accounted for and returned so Nigerian workers can enjoy the benefits,” he insisted.
In his remarks, NUCECFWW President, Stephen Okoro, criticised unfair labour practices in the construction sector, particularly against engineers and workers in both multinational and indigenous firms.
Okoro reaffirmed the union’s commitment to decent work standards, workplace safety, and the abolition of casualisation.
“Our duty is to ensure good roads, properly erected buildings, and quality furniture. We bear the pains, but we have zero tolerance for unfair labour practices. Injury to one is injury to all,” he declared.
