A meeting convened by the federal government on Wednesday to deliberate on the national minimum wage for workers ended abruptly as leaders of organised labour staged a walk-out, expressing discontent with the proposed wage.

Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and Tommy Okon, Deputy President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), represented the workers at the meeting. 

However, the proceedings took an unexpected turn as labour leaders voiced their dissatisfaction with the government’s proposal.

In a press conference following the walk-out, Ajaero condemned the federal government’s proposed N48,000 wage, accusing the government of lacking seriousness in negotiating with labour.

He stated that the proposed amount not only insults the sensibilities of Nigerian workers but also falls significantly short of meeting their needs and aspirations.

Ajaero issued a stern ultimatum to the government, stating that they have until the end of the month to arrive at a decision that adequately addresses the concerns of workers. 

He also stressed the importance of a fair and equitable minimum wage that reflects the economic realities faced by Nigerian workers.