The Federal Government has issued a strong directive to agencies hiring for the private sector, emphasizing the necessity to comply with the N70,000 minimum wage. Any deviations from this mandate will be met with strict consequences.
During the 13th Annual General Meeting of the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria in Ikeja, Lagos, Alhaji Ismaila Abubakar, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, stressed that the new minimum wage is crucial to align with the current economic landscape. He affirmed that every Nigerian worker, regardless of their employment sector, should earn at least this minimum wage.
Represented by John Nyamali, Director of Employment and Wages, Abubakar stated, “The minimum wage is now a law, and it is a punishable offense for any employer to pay less than N70,000 to any worker. Private employment agencies must ensure that any contract with their clients stipulates that workers should not earn below the minimum wage. After all deductions, the lowest-paid worker in Nigeria should receive N70,000.”
Abubakar further emphasized the legal ramifications of failing to comply, asserting that non-implementation could lead to imprisonment. He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that all workers receive the stipulated minimum wage.
Dr. Olufemi Ogunlowo, President of the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria, urged the government and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to clarify whether the N70,000 wage is calculated on a net or gross basis, as uncertainties in the law need to be addressed. He reassured that the EAPEAN is dedicated to adhering to the minimum wage, striving to provide fair employment opportunities while protecting against worker exploitation.
“The EAPEAN is committed to implementing the minimum wage and ensuring compliance among our principals and clients. However, clarity on whether the N70,000 is net or gross is essential,” he noted.
Funmilayo Sessi, Chairperson of the NLC Lagos State Council, echoed the need for strict adherence to the minimum wage, highlighting the ongoing economic challenges that diminish workers’ earnings. She stated, “The N70,000 is insufficient given the current economic realities. Once the consequential adjustments are finalized, all private employment agencies must begin paying their workers this amount immediately.”
Sessi reaffirmed the NLC’s commitment to enforcing the minimum wage and advised EAPEAN to engage collaboratively rather than confrontationally with the NLC on this issue.
Written By; Christopher Emuakpeje